The Graves'

I haven't been busy at all...

2011-12-22T18:19:00.001-08:00

(Snowman Oreo cookie balls)

(And of course a visit with Santa)

Did you notice the touch of sarcasm in the title? No? Well, sarcasm IS hard to relay in print.

I have been doing just a few things lately. (Sarcasm again)

I finished this semester with straight A's. I hate saying that because I really only took 2 classes. So it's not like I had a bazillion courses. But I did these two classes while taking care of 2 maniacs and working... So yeah, I guess I will be proud of that. Next semester I am taking three classes rather than two. I only have 25 hours left until I graduate with my bachelors and I am getting impatient. I will attempt 9 hours this semester so I could possibly finish in 3 semesters.

I have also been working full time. I have actually really enjoyed going back to work. While I was staying at home I thought it would be IMPOSSIBLE for me to like work. But, it is indeed nice to get out of the house, dress up in nice clothes rather than sweats and visit with other adults. And I appreciate the kiddos more when I get home. I have Wednesdays off and I L-O-V-E that. It really breaks up the week.

Speaking of Wednesdays... I have really been trying to save money lately. Any amount we can save is one step closer to a house of our own. So, I have been price comp'ing our groceries every time I go. It really saves a lot. And since I would look up the ads on Wednesdays, I figured why not email the deals to anyone if they want them? So I started a list of people to send ads to each week. It has sure taken off- I now have 37 people on that list and more are added almost daily. I love helping people save money!!

The PRIDE group that I helped get off the ground has really been doing well also. We just recently had a few events for Christmas. We asked people to donate items that they do not need that are in good/great condition. We then took those items and had a "Christmas Store". This was a free thing- people who maybe needed clothes for their kids for the cold winter or needed toys to put under the tree this Christmas could come in and get these items. For free, of course. It was VERY successful and people were quite grateful. There was also a nice article wrote up on it in the paper. We then had a Christmas party on Saturday the 17th. Santa came, of course. He rode in on the fire truck. He then passed out bags of treats to everyone (filled with oranges, peanuts in the shell, and some activities for the kiddos). We had a pot-luck style dinner and then Santa drove around town and delivered bags to shut-ins. What a way to make yourself feel good during the Christmas season! All of us were as grateful for being able to help as the people that we helped.

At this event, I was approached by the Mayor for the teeny-tiny town I live in. He wants to get some things done here, just as we do. He asked me if I would be interested in being the reporter for the town and writing articles for a local newspaper. I said I sure would.

I think that is mostly everything for now. There have been lots of smaller happenings in between (we had to put a doggy to sleep and found out another one has a possible lesion on his spinal cord, the kids are growing and learning new stuff everyday, etc). Just enough to keep me from blogging.

Until now :)

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T08:09:00.000-07:00

The Halloween Festival that we hosted was a HUGE success. We sold out of food by 7:00! And we had made enough for 150-200 people! It was amazing. All of the proceeds went to the Quenemo PRIDE group.

We have also decided to start getting stuff figured out so we can begin building our dream house next year. Here is our tentative timeline:

- This winter get the land appraised and in our name

- Late winter/early spring- go to the bank and apply for construction loan

- Spring/summer- finalize blue prints, dirt work, basement poured, well dug, septic tank installed, electricity ran

- Late summer/early fall- Have our house set on the basement, let settle

- And as soon as we can- move in and finish the basement!!

I am very excited to start planning. Our goal is to have it done in a year (and have all of our credit cards paid off by then- we are almost there!). It is going to be a ton of work- especially with me returning to work, doing the PRIDE stuff, going to school and giving as much attention to the kiddos as they crave. But, I have a feeling I can do it.

And it will give me something to blog about!

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What's up?

2011-10-24T05:33:00.000-07:00

I have been terrible about remembering to blog lately. And I cannot remember what I did YESTERDAY, so forget about last week or however long ago. So, I decided to go through my pictures I took on my phone to see what has been up. Here ya go:

Lady "window-peeking"

Carter drank some ketchup. Pa had surgery (he is doing fine now!)

Carter napped.

Kinsley napped. (Apparently I love to take nap pictures- I have a TON!)

I bought these super cute little candle holders for our future house:

We went to the pumpkin patch/orchard:

The end! It was a fun few weeks had by all. Now I am going to enjoy my last 2 weeks off before I start to work.

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Sometimes...

2011-10-05T11:28:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you just have to be patient.

I tell my son this a lot. Today he saw a toy he wanted on a commercial and told me "Mommy, you can just download that right now." If only. I told him he has to be patient and wait and ask for it for Christmas.

But sometimes I have to be patient, too. Like right now.

Last night I had a job interview. It was for a very part time job as the city treasurer in Quenemo. Unfortunately, I did not get it. There were four of us that got interviewed and we were all pretty much over-qualified for the job. They said they were surprised people with our amount of education/experience applied for this job. It would have been a good one but maybe I didn't get it for a reason.

I have another phone interview this week for a different job. Maybe I will get that one! I will just have to be patient and see. But it's hard. Especially when the four of us share one bedroom. I want to start dreaming of a house, a space of our own. And SEPARATE bedrooms.

Patience.

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This is how I feel today

2011-09-24T05:45:00.000-07:00

(Don't worry- she is fine. She just wasn't getting her breakfast fast enough.)

Today I feel like having some wine time. Wait. No. WHINE time.

Maybe wine wouldn't be so bad either. I usually try not to complain too much about stuff. I try to see the positive, blah blah blah. Today I am just not feeling that. I just want to be a grouch.

My neck hurts really bad. I have been (not) sleeping on it wrong. The whole 2 minutes of sleep I get at night are apparently the wrong way and so I can barely move my neck. I will probably visit a chiropractor soon.

Why do I only get 2 minutes of sleep? Because I have 2 extra teeny bodies in my bed every night. But they don't seem so teeny when they are taking up half the bed. And when I am getting kicked in the face/stomach/etc.

The kids are driving me nuts today. (And just so you know, it is only 7:42am)

I am sure there is more to whine about but I have to go get ready. We are going to a parade. And it better not rain.

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Did I sign up for this??

2011-09-22T08:45:00.000-07:00

I guess if my life was a reality show it would be a different version of Survivor. You know, let's see how much we can have Emily do at once without her head exploding.

The truth is, I signed myself up for all this junk. Well, some of it was a surprise.

I helped start up the Quenemo PRIDE group- we are going strong so far. There are only 388 people in our town, but 40 people show up to the meetings. I consider that a pretty darned good turnout. Anyway, I am planning several things at once- I just purchased shirts for a fundraiser and now I am setting my sights on next year- I want to plan a carnival, a parade, and a 5k. This should be fun! We have meetings once a month (the last Monday of the month- unless it is a holiday) so come if you are in the area. I am the secretary so you will see me burning a hole in my paper jotting down the notes and running around like a chicken with its head cut off.

As you know, I am also going to school. This semester I decided to only go half-time, so I am taking 6 hours. I am doing well so far- I will be disappointed if I finish with anything other than an A.

And then something unexpected came up.
A part time job came open for our city. It sounded perfect- 30 hrs per month would give us just a little extra money to use. So I decided I would apply for it. And I did.
But then something even more unexpected happened. My mom has worked for the hospital for 15 years (more than that, really, but this was 15 consecutive now) and they had a Service Awards reception so the kiddos and I went with her. While I was there, my former boss came up and asked if I would be interested in coming back to work at the hospital. I told her I would have to think about it.
So I have been. Thinking. And more thinking. Mostly at night so it keeps me awake.
I came to the conclusion that I will probably go back to work. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE being a stay at home mom. Seriously, A LOT. But this will help us out a lot. I asked if I could work 4 8-hour shifts and she said that is fine. So, Mimi will go back to working weekends so she can watch the kids during the week and then I will probably go back to work (I still have to apply and go through all the hoops again). It will be tough but I just have to keep thinking that we will get out of debt even faster which will help us out in the long run.
I guess that is my show then. Work, kids, school, PRIDE group and whatever else comes up next.

Stay tuned.

sigh

2011-09-11T17:09:00.000-07:00

(i heart my phone- especially since it can take vintage-y pics like this)

What a dreamy time of year.

I can't stop smiling- there is a chill in the air and it gives you a bounce in your step after the summer beatdown.

We have been outside burning brush, throwing wood, taking our time doing chores we had been rushing through all summer, and swinging. Lots of swinging.

It is around 50° in the mornings, a cool 60 by the time we are ready to get out and about. We put on our jeans and longsleeve shirts and it is HEAVEN. Then, after dinner it is cool once again and we have to huddle by our brush fires to stay warm if we want to stay outside.

*Sigh* Its perfect. I hope it stays around for a while.

(I won't be outside tonight- I am going to represent Quenemo PRIDE at the city council meeting. I heard it through the grapevine that we might receive a nice donation tonight! Wish me luck!)

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Selfish

2011-09-11T17:08:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was having a bit of a selfish day. Everyone is allowed one now and then, right?

I love my kids and my family is my world. Nothing is more important to me. That's why yesterday caught me a bit by surprise.

It started at lunch. I make Carter and me something to eat. I get him started eating his lunch. Then I make Kinsley something. When that is done it is time for me to eat. Only it isn't really. I forgot a drink for Carter. I get up, get it and hand it to him. Sit down again. I forgot the ketchup and Carter dips EVERYTHING in ketchup. I get up and get it. Kinsley starts screeching because her tray has been empty for .0001 second. I give her more food. And by the time I get some cut up to prepare for the next screechfest, she has already cleaned her tray so I have to cut up more. Repeat about 596 times.

Eventually I get to sneak a bite. Mmm, cold (sometimes soggy) food.

Will I EVER get a warm meal again?

And again at bedtime- more selfishness.

I get Kinsley to sleep. Darek is asleep because he has to wake up super early to work overtime. And Carter isn't even close. My eyeballs feel like they have sand in them and my eyelids feel as if they are trying to hold up 50lb bags.

But I can't go to sleep untill both kids are asleep. Carter would inevitably need a drink/pee/story and would just wake me up anyway.

So I wait. And wait. And wait. (It was 11:00 at that point.)

Carter falls asleep (finally!) and now I feel as if I had drank a route 44 cherry coke from Sonic. I was buzzing with energy. But I laid there anyway. And thought about all that I needed to do the next day/week/century. And about how I wonder if I will EVER get to be the first one asleep.

I would even settle going to the bathroom by myself for once in 3 years.

But today things are back to normal. My cold lunch will be ok. After all, if I make me a hammie sandwich its cold anywsy, right? And I drew Carter a picture while I was in the bathroom (some of my best art, I must say). And I will cherish the 30+ minutes of silence after everyone goes to bed and before my brain wants to turn off. And one of these days I will go to a restaurant alone (Darek can babysit) and I will eat first.
:)
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I am TIRED...

2011-09-02T18:35:00.000-07:00

Notice that is in all CAPS. That means I am very serious. I am TIRED. Darek has been working 10 hour days this week. Which, you may be thinking to yourself, means that HE is tired. Which, I am sure he is. But that means that I am home alone with the maniacs for an extra TWO HOURS. That feels like a whole extra day by the time 5:00 has rolled around.

Also, you will notice there is no picture today. I tried to send it several times from my phone but I guess it is TIRED also. Poo.

I have been extremely busy with my new project. We have the Quenemo PRIDE group up and running. This week I got a highway adopted by us and designed a shirt for the group. And had a meeting. And tomorrow I am going to set up the bank account. And Wednesday is a City Council meeting, at which I will speak on behalf of the PRIDE group. Etc, etc.

I have also started school. I started out with 4 classes. I am not sure what I was thinking. 12 hours, forming a non-profit group, and two children is a bit much to take on all at once! So, I had to rethink my plans. I would rather take 2 classes and get A's in them then take 4 and do average work. I dropped the two classes I wasn't really interested in. That left me with Ethics and World Religions, both of which I find extremely interesting. It is hard to only take 6 hours because I only have 20 some left before I am done, but I have to remember what is truly important and that is making sure the kiddos are happy and healthy and have a lot of my attention.

I am still running. I was going to today but I have a migraine. AGAIN. I think I will go back to the Dr and get a better medication or something because my once a month migraines have turned into about 4 a month. Not cool. Anyway, I hadn't been running as far when I run (I have been doing like 2 to 2.5 miles) but the other night I felt great so I did a little over 3 again. I sure love how I feel when I am done! It is an inconvenience to find time to do it but it is so great afterward. But I need to re-evaluate my running/eating plan so I quit losing weight! I don't want to be scary skinny!

I think that is it for now. Pics to come soon.

Where has time gone?

2011-08-24T20:49:00.001-07:00

(A pic of our teeny tiny town. I liked it except for my shadow!)

Seriously. Where has it gone??

The days and weeks and months just keep going faster and faster. I feel like a person on a roller coaster just trying to hold on and go with the flow but its going so darned FAST! (Have I mentioned I hate roller coasters? Not to the extent that I hate worms, but a close second.)

Here is what I've been up to this week:

I had to get a display ready for an open house at the school here in our itty bitty town. We are forming a PRIDE group and it is going to take a lot of work. Brochures, display, meeting times/dates, potential fundraisers... These are all swishing around in my head at pretty much all times of the day (and night) now.

School also started. For me, that is. I started out with 12 hrs but for various reasons (children, prior commitments, poor communication, etc.) I am now down to just 6. I like the set up of the 2 classes I have. They are World Religions and Ethics. They are both interesting, that's for sure.

I have also been debating on whether or not to send Carter to preschool. He is so smart and he would have fun. But maybe I want him to be home for a while longer :)

And I have decided to get miss Kinsley's super cute little ears pierced. I will post a pic when it gets done.

So between all that and traveling to see Darek's parents as often as we can (we usually only make it back once a month so we are grateful they are willing to come see us so often!) we are stretched rather thin right now. But it's a good thing. We are working towards goals and making things happen.

And now I am going to bed. Everyone is snoring and I would be crazy not to join them.

Goodnight!

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Ears

2011-08-19T06:24:00.001-07:00

I am seriously contemplating having these teeny tiny, cute little ears pierced.

At first I was completely against it. Nope, no way, not happening. She needs to wait until she can decide she wants them done.

Then, the other night I saw a picture of a little girl (about Kinsley's age) with cute little earrings in. It was the cutest thing ever. And getting your ears pierced is kind of scary. If I could do it at a time when she will not remember it then maybe that would be best.

I looked online for information about babies getting their ears pierced. Who knew it was such a hotly debated process?? Yikes. People were fighting back and forth about their stance on it. And all of that came up when I just searched for how young they can do it (2 months seems to be the consensus).

On one of the heated discussions there was a very memorable response. A lady was talking about how she was pro-piercing at a young age and someone had replied in a not-so-nice way. She replied something to the effect of why should she wait, we don't wait to circumcise our sons just so they can choose or not. (I think that was a bit dramatic but a good point.)

Besides, most girls/women do have their ears pierced and I am sure it will probably be a decision she would make anyway. And if she got to be 5, 6, 10 years old and HATED earrings then she could just NOT wear them, right?

Oh, decisions, decisions.

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Regularity

2011-08-14T07:07:00.001-07:00

(Kinsley being cute)

(Kinsley emptying her brother's toy bins. That one is trouble.)

(Carter Daniel on the day we opened his very first bank account)

I had been pressuring Carter to poop on the potty. This would inevitably lead to him withholding his poo, constipation, stomache aches, laxitives and the cycle would restart.

Then, I decided I was going to stop. He is only 3- its not the end of the world if he poops in a pull-up. Besides he goes pee in the potty so that is a pretty big accomplishment.

So, for a few weeks I wouldn't say a word about him pooping. When he asked if he could have a pull-up on so he could poop I would put one on his little booty and clean up the "mess" afterwards. He started going everyday again and things were back to normal.

Then 2 nights ago at approximately (ok, exactly) 11:30pm, he woke up and couldn't sleep. Drinks of water were had, his back was sufficiently scratched, and still no sign of sleep. I was getting quite irritated at this point when he said that he had to go pee. I was pretty sure this was a ploy to push me over the edge into crazyville. (And with all the ruckus going on, Kinsley woke up so I now had two kids awake.)

I told Darek that Carter had to pee and he had to take him while I dealt with the other maniac. And, unless you are a parent also, this may be TMI. But he sat on the potty, pee'd, gave a good grunt and Hallelujah! There was #2 in the potty. So, even though it was super late, I was tired and frustrated and Darek was dreading the prospect of work the next day on no sleep, we made a big hoorah about him pooping in the toilet.

It was a fluke. It just had to be- he probably grunted too hard and it just happened. Bur it happened nonetheless.

Last night, here we were: bed time again. I was having trouble getting the kids to sleep. The clock seemed to be working against me. It was staring at me with its green numbers, mocking me. 10:58, 11:10, 11:45. And just as I think everyone is asleep, Carter sits up. He wants to watch tv. He wants s drink. His back itches. No tv, back scratched and one drink later, he was still up.

"Carter, do you need to pee?"
"Yet." (Carter speak for yes- 's' doesn't come out so well.)

He gets on the toilet and does the #1. Then he sits there for another minute and goes #2. Like he has been doing it for years.

I was thrilled. He was so proud of himself. Now, we only have to figure out how to move "poop time" a bit earlier than midnight.

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Let me introduce you...

2011-08-05T20:53:00.001-07:00

You, this is me. Oh, you know me? Well do you know the thirty-pounds-lighter me?? Now you do.

Oh, and I met this beautiful woman today.

Once in a lifetime kinda thing

2011-08-05T07:04:00.000-07:00

This week I got an opportunity that is a once in a lifetime kind of opportunity. You see, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition decided to help a veteran and his family in Ottawa, KS. They are a very deserving family and the dad suffers from PTSD. Loud noises can set him into a panic attack, so the family really needed a place in the country. And Extreme Makeover decided to step in and help them out.

I was trying to think of when I could volunteer but registration was always full with volunteers and so I didn't think I was going to get a chance. Then, I saw a post on Facebook that they were needing volunteers Thursday morning from 2am-8am.

So, I called Dannie and asked her if she would want to go with me. Luckily, Mimi was off on Thursday so she would be able to watch the kids for me if I needed to sleep after my shift. And since we decided we had better get there early to be sure we could volunteer, Dannie and I showed up at midnight. We decided to try and be brave and pull an all-nighter. (I am much to old for that now!)

We arrived at midnight and signed our waivers and received our hard hats. (Those cannot possibly be flattering on ANYONE.) They told us to go to the next tent to start working.

I guess I was hoping we could do more to help- like painting or something hands-on. But, they mostly have professionals do that and they weren't to the point of painting yet anyway. So we got to take bottles of water and gaterade around, then breakfast, more water, ice cream, etc. Then we picked up the trash. It was a lot of fun to see how fast they were working. A lot changed in just the time that we were there (even with the storm that came in).

I think the house is supposed to be done on Saturday. We are going to try and go to the reveal if possible. It was great to do my part in helping, even though I didn't feel like I was much help!

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My baby boy turned 3

2011-07-31T20:17:00.000-07:00

For Carter's birthday, he wanted to do three things: open presents, go to Applebee's and go to Dairy Queen.

First, we let him open the big present from Darek and I. It was the whole Sunnyside Daycare bunch from Toy Story 3. He was in heaven! He was so darned excited.

Then we went to Applebees. We had our supper- a couple of his new toys joined us as well as Uncle Craig, Aunt Mary and cousin Cole.

Then on to the best part: DQ ice cream. Carter had a mini cookie dough blizzard (a quarter of one before he got bored anyway). I even splurged and had an ice cream cone!

Anyway, we had a great time. I cannot believe my little Carter Daniel is 3 years old now. He is such a big boy and I look forward to planning many more birthday parties!

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A fun time was had by all....

2011-07-31T20:05:00.000-07:00

{I made toy story themed cupcakes. They were delicious!}

{Sno cones!}

{Cutie patootie Miss Kinsley}

{No party is complete without a bounce house!}

{And party favors. My favorite favor was the sunglasses.}

Here is a small sample of the festivities. I will post more pictures at a later date.

Because right now I am hungover. Birthday hungover. The kind where no alcohol was involved but rather lots of energy was expended and sugar has been consumed.

Goodnight.

Delusional?

2011-07-22T08:04:00.000-07:00

No, not delusional. A bit ambitious, perhaps.

This picture is what Quenemo, Kansas used to look like. There were several businesses, restaurants, etc.

Today, there is a post office. And that is it.

I would post a picture of what Quenemo looks like today so you could make the comparison, but honestly, there is NOTHING to take a picture of. A lot of the houses are falling in, abandoned, or just not cared for. The buildings that used to house businesses are empty or completely gone. And a lot of the residents have moved out of town.

Thanks to Facebook, several of the remaining residents of Quenemo have decided to combine forces and clean up the town a bit. I am one of them. I have volunteered to scrape, paint, mow, or whatever is needed of me. It will be exciting to make changes.

We are also in the process of forming a non-profit organization so we can do some fundraising. We have our first meeting on Wednesday. I have been suggested for the secretary and spokesperson positions, which I will gladly accept if everyone agrees that those are the jobs for me.

I also am in the process of setting up a fair for next year. It will be small. And people may not go to it, but I will be able to say I tried. And who knows? Maybe it will be a success. Maybe this is all that this little sleepy town has been waiting for. A good kick in the bum to get goin'.

On parenting

2011-07-20T15:39:00.001-07:00

I think about 98.25% of parenting is problem solving. Why are they crying? Are they sick? Hurt? Angry? Just trying to drive me bonkers???

My latest issue has been feeding Kinsley. She HATES green veggies. And that has recently turned into ALL veggies. She spits and cries no matter how many times I try them.

So yesterday I was trying to think of why. Is it the flavor? The texture?

Last night I decided to try something a bit different. Maybe she wants to feed herself?

I made her some peas and carrots and put them on her tray (with low expectations). And she ate them! Peas no longer made her gag and carrots no longer made her shudder. Success!

I guess she is a bit more independent than I give her credit for.

Problem solved.

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Productive day

2011-07-20T07:14:00.001-07:00

We had quite the day yesterday. We got A LOT done. And it was stuff that needed to be done for a while now.

Mom has the perfect place for a pantry. But without shelves in there, it was really just a place to throw stuff. So, yesterday morning we were talking about how nice it would be to have shelves in there. I looked up several different types on Home Depot's website and found some perfect shelves. Inexpensive ($89), easy to assemble, and heavy duty (it holds 3600 lbs!).

I called HD and they had some in stock so we made a quick trip to Lawrence. We got the shelves (3 of them), went and got groceries and then headed home to assemble our purchases.

It took about an hour to assemble the 3 sets of shelves- each set has 6 shelves. Not bad in my opinion! And no tools required. Even better.

We got the shelves into the former utility room and woolah! a pantry! (See pic above)

Then, after supper I decided that the garden needed a little tlc. Risking my life, I decided to weed and hoe the garden. (I could have seen a worm, had a heart attack and croaked.)

I ended up doing more than I had originally intended. And I am paying for it today. I can barely open my right hand (see other pic), and every,muscle is sore. Who knew that hoe-ing the garden works your abs??

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Self Discovery is a Funny Thing

2011-07-17T20:08:00.001-07:00

It seems like I learn something new about myself everyday. It really is quite odd if you think about it. I mean, who knows me better than me?? Yet I still learn new things all the time.

I was thinking about this as I was watering the garden tonight. Everyone else had gone in and I had a (very rare) moment completely alone. Here are a few things I've learned/discovered/realized about myself:

I am a country girl through and through. I always have wanted to move back to (fun, exciting, hip) Lawrence. But now I realized I would MUCH rather live in the country. And maybe visit Lawrence once a week. {let me clarify something- my admitting I am country does NOT mean I like country music.}

I am a good mom. I may have days where I am impatient or grouchy. I may have days where none of us get out of our pj's. And I use spanking as as form of punishment. But I feel that I do the best job I can and that is what matters.

I dislike running. I wish I could be like Beth and just love it, but I can't. I dread it, but I do feel good afterward. And I LOVE the results, so I will continue to do it.

And last thing on my mind: I am happy I am married to Darek. I met a lot of Darek's high school friends this weekend. And most of them are single. Instead of being a smidge jealous of the single, free life they lead, I found myself thinking how lucky I am to be married and have our wonderful children.

I am lucky, indeed.

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Cuties

2011-07-11T10:20:00.000-07:00

I know everyone thinks that their kids are the cutest things in the world. But I am just POSITIVE that mine are.

These pics were from Kaleb and Julian's party at the fire station. (Except for chubby baby's nudie smiley pic and that was at home!)

Check out Kinsley's super cute headband. I made it!

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Happiness is...

2011-07-08T07:15:00.001-07:00

...spraying everyone with the garden hose on a hot summer day.

...snack time. Even if it is cabinets you are snacking on.

But seriously, I feel like we have been happier than ever lately. And you know why? Because we are poor.

Seriously.

I never thought that would make us so happy. Who really WANTS to be poor? For us, it just kind of happened. It was totally our own fault. I feel like in our society, you get married, buy a house, have kids, get new cars, have new clothes, go on vacations, etc. Basically, spend beyond your means. And that is what we did. We got married. We bought a house, a new car, had kids, and spent, spent spent. Or charged it, charged it, charged it. (And we spent some for something we prob shouldn't have spent our own money on. But that's a whole 'nother story.)

Then we found ourselves in a pickle. We were struggling each month to make all of our payments. I would choose which bill I thought could be a month late so we could pay another one.

Darek and I decided to try to sell our house to make things work. We sold it and moved in with my parents. And we still had no extra money. It made me wonder how we made it as long as we did!

Now, we use all of our money for groceries, to pay of bills and go towards our savings. I make sure our bank account is as close to nothing as possible each week- that means we have put as much as we can in savings or in a payment. So far, we have paid off (and this may be too much info to put out, but since Beth is like my only reader I feel ok about it!) $700 from having Kinsley, a $3000 home depot card, a $1000 Sam's club card, a $1500 Best Buy card, a big chunk on our regular card and prob more that I am forgetting at the moment. We have also got a good start on our savings.

So, we are happy. We are happy that we are getting out of debt. We are happy to pay cash for anything that we may need. We are happy to save for a future home. And most of all, we are just happy to be poor.

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P.S. I LOVE to take ads into Wal-mart and they will, of course, match it. So, the other day I bought 25 bottles of powerade for Darek to take to work, saline solution, eye makeup remover, a case of water, several tv dinners, lots of cheese, my breakfast bars and a ton of other stuff for only $60. I was pretty impressed with myself.

Summer Days

2011-06-28T13:27:00.001-07:00

I have recently vowed to become more productive. I would say that surviving the day with 2 children under the age of three is productive in itself, but I still felt like a bum.

So, I've been trying to do more. This morning we woke up and ate, hung 3 loads of laundry on the line, played (I looked over my homework while Kinsley napped), 1 more load on the line, lunch, last load of laundry out, nap time (including me today), and now play time and snack time outside.

Soon daddy will get home and it will be time for me to cook, do homework, bathe kiddos and spend some more time outside.

I've been trying to involve Carter in our chores any way I can. He loves his John Deere gator, so he helps me when I hang clothes on the line by hauling them out there for me. He also drove the trash to the dumpster at the end of the driveway while we walked along with him. Exercise for me + fun for him while accomplishing a chore = perfection.

I love these summer days.

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My life as Em.

2011-06-24T15:11:00.000-07:00

Omg. This picture is what I look like today. Seriously. Here's the scoop:

The hair? Pulled back into a messy 'do. Why? Because (this is embarrassing...) I totally realized today that it hasn't been washed since MONDAY. That doesnt embarrass me as much as it did when I realized I haven't washed ME since Monday- now thats embarrassing.

And HOW have I somehow managed to set in my own stench that long??

Basically, I just forgot. Seriously, I FORGOT.

Here's why:
16 weeks of Spanish crammed into just 3.
Potty-training a 3 year old. 'nuff said.
Darek getting injured at work and the subsequent ER trip and stitches. (He is ok! 4 stitches in his finger.)

And I probably have more reasons, but crap, if I forgot to shower do you really think I can remember what I was going to post?!?

I could explain the no make-up and baby food splattered shirt (squash, in case you were wondering), but we are going out to dinner.

Why? Because we survived the week. Quit asking so many questions! :)

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What I've been doing...

2011-06-12T08:04:00.000-07:00

{Date night with the hubby- the pic is bad because we were in a movie theater!}

{First Pedicure}

{Watching my baby discover how much fun spitting while eating is}

{Took a trip to the zoo}

{Cheesing}

{Watching good ol' Kansas thunderstorms- even though a few have been a bit too scary}

Good Times

2011-05-17T17:34:00.000-07:00

We've been busy. And I LOVE it. So here are some updates:

Since Darek is off in the evenings now, we spend a lot of time outside. Playing, gardening, generally just wearing the kids out. It is such a huge (but great) change. I've also been making dinner nightly (with the help of Grammy some nights). I make out our menu for almost a month ahead of time and then we just go off of it. It makes grocery shopping and cooking a lot easier. We don't have to waste time thinking of what to make for supper!

I know I was SUPPOSED to run my first non-stop 5k last weekend. But, you see, I didn't. We had a wedding come up and it was really cold outside so I decided to skip it. I figured it wasn't too terrible since I run at least a 5K usually 3 times a week. (On the treadmill, that is.) And I have officially lost over 20 lbs. I feel great.

A long time ago I also wrote about trying to get out of debt. As you know, we sold our house and are living with my parents. This has allowed us to pay off 3 credit cards so far. I am so proud. We have also added to our savings. AND I have come up with a plan to where we can pay off our "large" credit card in 5 months, another store one in less than 3, and then the very last one in about 2 months. If we can accomplish this then the only debt we will have is our car and our student loans.

Speaking of student loans- I am officially enrolled at ESU this summer. My class starts on June 13th. I am just taking one this summer- Spanish I. Then I will go full-time online this fall, and then full time this spring. I found info on the daycare at the college and I might just enroll the kiddos in the spring. I think it would be good for them (and me). Anyway, if I can earn my degree it will be a Bachelors of Arts in Modern Languages with a Concentration in Spanish. Whoa, thats a mouthfull.

I think that might be it for now. I probably forgot something I am sure. But that will give me an excuse to blog again soon, right?

The best 57lbs I can carry...

2011-05-09T18:58:00.000-07:00

Happy late Mother's day! I hope everyone had a great one.

Mine was pretty spectacular. We didn't do anything too special- we went to lunch at Jason's deli (and Carter stole my sandwich), visited Mimi at work and then played at the park. But that is exactly what made it so great. We are all healthy, we can do all those things and we are all together.

Anyway, its bedtime. Goodnight!

That's it!

2011-04-26T17:10:00.000-07:00

(This picture has nothing to do with this post really- but gosh he is cute!)

I've been thinking a lot lately. About all kinds of stuff. Mainly what I want to be when I grow up.

I haven't really had a desire to go back to school in a long time. I went not too terribly long ago (well, I guess before I had Carter...) and finished my Associates Degree. And that has been enough, until now.

I could never think of what I would want to do as a career. But then I thought of it! Duh! Something that sounds exciting and fun to me, rewarding and something I can help others with. I would really like to major in Spanish.

This sounds somewhat insane to me, just a little. But if I can make it work I would love to work in Lawrence as an interpretor, helping Spanish speaking people do basic daily things that they need help with in an English speaking community. And I thought of something else: I would like to volunteer to help people who want to learn English learn it. That would be so rewarding.

So, Im going to check into things and see what I can do. Wish me luck!

An Easter to Remember

2011-04-24T17:25:00.002-07:00

Oh my goodness. What a weekend!

Friday we packed up and drove to Solomon to spend Easter with Darek's parents and his brother. We got into town around 3 and immediately took Carter to an "Easter Egg hunt" but it was really just follow the Eggs to 75,000 pounds of candy. He had a blast. We finished the day off with pizza and laughs.

Saturday morning I woke up and Darek's mom, his brother and I went to the fitness club in Abilene so they could check it out and so I could jog. I jogged 4 miles straight. LOVE IT.

We then went home, I showered then Darek, his brother and I decided why not go get tattoos? Darek and I have been meaning to get our wedding rings tattoo'd on for the longest time. BUT most tattoo artists will not tattoo on fingers. Finally, we found one that would. After about 20 minutes of him trying to talk us out of it (apparently he thinks its a jinx and we are now going to get divorced because we got these tattoos. I don't believe in that.) he finally helped us out. Darek just wanted 2 lines instead of a solid band and I didnt really care what I got because I was just happy to be getting it, so I got the same thing. I love it. Permanent wedding rings! (Yay! Because I don't wear much jewelry so this is perfect!)

We then went back and relaxed for the evening and who knows what else- at this point I'm so tired I can't really remember what we did! Eek.

This morning we woke up, got all gussied up and went to church. Carter kept going "PSSSST!" to the people in front of us during the quietest moments. Yikes. We then had a late breakfast, Carter went and saw some fire trucks, we had a big lunch, easter egg hunt, drive, supper... Oy.

Anyway, that was pretty much it. I think.

Happy Easter!!

2011-04-21T18:33:00.000-07:00

I'm still alive.

Just thought you might be wondering since I don't blog everyother day anymore! Here's what I've been up to:

I went and got a few more highlights put in my hair. And some bangs cut. I needed just a bit of a change and that seemed like the perfect thing. Love them so far.

Still running. Tonight I ran 3.5 miles STRAIGHT. FYI- I am no longer happy just doing 3.1 miles, so I do 4 miles every other day. Tonight I ran 3.5 miles, walked .25 and then sprinted .25. Good times.

Tomorrow we are heading to Solomon to have Easter with Darek's family. I will take lots of pics, forget to post them for about a month, and then will post them. So look here in a month for Easter pics.

I've also been making lots of hair clips. I'm going to send some to my super cute nieces and my sister-in-law. I think they will love them! I'm also going to try to start selling some.

I think thats it for now! Happy Easter!!

Nap time

2011-04-14T11:36:00.000-07:00

There comes a time in every young mother's life when she must make an important decision. One that could change the outcome of an entire day.

To nap or not to nap.

The kids are BOTH asleep. Mimi even fell asleep. And it is decision time.

To go get some extra beauty sleep? Or to enjoy the quiet, maybe even SHOWER?

I think I will be extra daring and stay awake and enjoy the quiet :)

(Plus I'm sure my husband would appreciate it if I actually shower today.)

My "Ah-Ha!" moment

2011-04-13T10:04:00.000-07:00

I don't have a picture of my running to post today. I had a moment of clarity on the treadmill last night and you just can't take a picture of that. You see, I think I have been running for the wrong reasons. I think I have been running for you and not for ME (ok, not really YOU, but you know what I mean, right??). I'm not quite sure how to say how I feel. The closest I can come is to say that I have been running to impress people, not just for me. But that's not quite right, but the closest I can come to expressing it. I need to run for ME. For my health. For my happiness. For pleasure. For fun. For an escape. Since I have been running I feel great about myself. I have lost close to 20 pounds- I didn't even know I COULD lose or NEEDED to lose 20 lbs! But I look great and I feel great. I'm not so achy anymore and I think my bones are getting stronger. I feel stronger in general. And my self esteem is higher than ever. I need to remember this as I run instead of trying to set goals that are more for other people than they are for me. I am still going to do a 5K in almost 1 month. But if I can't run the whole thing I am not going to focus on that. I am going to focus on the fact that I DID it. And I am not going to focus on the fact that there are XXX amount of people there that are faster or slower than me. I am going to focus on the fact that there are XXXXXXXXXXXX amount of people that DIDN'T come or weren't ABLE to do it in the first place. (PS- No matter how hard I tried, this still ran all the paragraphs together! So I used bold to try to separate them!)

5K on a hot, windy day....

2011-04-10T18:26:00.000-07:00

Today I participated in my first 5K EVER. I say "participated" in and not "ran" in because I am a bit disappointed.

I usually run on the treadmill. I recently ran 3.1 miles non-stop on the treadmill. But I got quite a lesson today: running outside is WAY more difficult.

It was quite hot for April in Kansas (close to 90) and VERY windy. It was really quite a challenge. I didn't get to run near as much as I thought I should be able to. But it was a lot of fun.

My finishing time was 41:50. My goal is to do a 30 minute 5K. That always seemed rather realistic until now....

Anyway, my goal was to do a 30 minute 5K on May 14th- that was the first 5K I had intended on doing- this one just came up so I did it. And I am glad I did.

Just one of those days....

2011-04-08T16:53:00.000-07:00

This picture of Carter's nap kinda explains it all. It has been a lazy day.

I started working out and didn't feel so great so I didn't push it. I have a 5K on Sunday so I didn't want to force anything. Plus, the super heavy lunch I had didn't help matters much.

Tomorrow is supposed to be a super great day outside- sunny and a high of 91 degrees. I'm thinking we are going to make a trip to Mass street in Lawrence or to the Legends for some shopping and walking around.

I will update you about my 5K on Sunday!!

Bring it on, baby!

2011-04-06T18:02:00.000-07:00

I have something like 37 days before my goal of being able to run a 5k with no walking. I decided I need to step it up a bit....

Each time I jog I try to go a bit further or do it just a bit faster. Last time I ran something like 2 miles straight. Tonight I wanted to run 2 1/4 to 2 1/2. I honestly didn't think I could do it.

After about 20 minutes of running I kind of get my second wind. I don't feel as out of breath and my muscles feel really good. I hit the 2 mile mark and still kept going- I didn't feel too terrible. And then I hit the 2 1/4 mile mark. I tried focusing on Diego (Carter has to watch tv while I jog) and that kind of helped me keep distracted. He was saving baby condors after all. I hit the 2 1/2 mark. Further than I have ever gone. But really, what is another half mile when you have ran that far?? I figured I needed to give it a shot. 2 3/4 came by and I was getting tired but not dead yet. Then I eeked towards 3 miles. But I really couldnt stop there, could I? After all, a 5K is 3.1 miles.

And I did it. I'm so proud of myself. I know that running on a treadmill is a bit easier than running outside but it is still such a huge step for me.

In other news:

Darek got a different job. I know, I know, he has only been working at his new one for a month. But in that month he has had to stay in a hotel like 3 or 4 times, and has been getting home at like 10 and 11 at night. He did have weekends off which was nice and was an improvement, but it still wasn't great. He got a call for an interview last week and went in and they called him today to deliver the good news. He will be working where my dad works so he will be able to carpool. And he will have set hours (and a set wage- yay!) and will get home around 3 in the afternoon EVERYDAY! And he will still have weekends off except for when they are working overtime. I am so excited!

And Miss Kinsley rolled over on her own. She is so roll-y poll-y that I wasn't sure if she would be able to or not but she did! It was cute but she was immediately mad and couldn't roll back over.

I also signed up for a 5k on Sunday- I may not be able to run the whole thing but it will be good practice for my one in May!

Busy weekend!

2011-04-04T08:19:00.000-07:00

This run was actually from 4/1. I've been too busy since then to post about it! I did the run Friday night, then Saturday I had to go get groceries and the usual Saturday morning routine of haircuts and all that jazz. Then Saturday night Darek, Courtney, Stan and I went out for dinner, drinks and bowling. It was a ton of fun. And then yesterday the weather was AMAZING (a bit windy, but beggars can't be choosers). It was 88 out but the wind was blowing 40 mph! It blew in quite the storm last night. And that brings me to today when I have finally found time to post. Anyway, this run was great. I try to push myself a bit more each time and I kept a goal in my head on this one: I wanted to run 2 miles. I really didnt know if I would make it or not. So, I paced myself and when I thought I was going to die I slowed down just a bit more (still jogging, though). I ran for the 2 miles and 27 straight minutes (7 minutes past my longest time). This makes me really proud that I am making it that far/long, but also a bit nervous. I try to do better each time and I keep doing so well that I'm afraid that I wont be able to do as well the next time. Oh well, I guess that happens once in a while so I should just expect it now and then. My next run: sometime today (if the stars align just so and I can get my children to nap at the same time. Har har).

I KILLED IT! (Not literally)

2011-03-30T19:18:00.000-07:00

I did AMAZ-AZING on my workout tonight. Seriously. I pushed it like I have never pushed before (hence 2 c-sections, but I digress...).

I figured I would run 1 mile like I have been starting out with lately. But I felt kinda especially tired so I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to do it plus I ate a terrible supper. So I make it to my mile point and I started thinking I have NEVER ran for 20 minutes before and I kinda wanted to try it. Huffing and puffing, I made it to 20 MINUTES! A little over, actually. It was a mile and a half. I have NEVER ran that far at one time in my entire life. Needless to say, I'm pretty proud. I then walked 3 minutes, then ran for ANOTHER 10 minutes! Yowza. I did it just so I could say that in 33 minutes of jogging I only walked for 3 minutes. So after the 10 minutes, I walked another 3 minutes. Then I finished strong with another jog (I even sped up at the end so I could try to beat my time by even more). So, I walked for a total of 6 minutes during a 41 minute run! Wahoo!

Now I have to go to bed.

Night night.

Just Another Manic Monday (er, well, yesterday was.)

2011-03-29T14:26:00.000-07:00

Had another great day- lounged around until I had to get ready to go to town, got ready and went tanning, went to Walmart, spend a bagillion years waiting at Walgreens for a Rx, then went to Kinsley's 4 month (ok, so I was a bit late) check-up. Then when I got home I ate supper and then exercised. By the end of all that it was pretty much bedtime.

Anyway, Kinsley's appointment went well. She measured in at a whopping 18.9lbs and was 26" long (the 90th percentile for height and the 98th for weight). What can I say? She's a big girl.

Exercising went well, also. I pretty much did the same workout as last time, but I ran a mile, walked 3 minutes, then did 3/4 mile, walked and so on. I have noticed by the end of my 3 minute walk I have completely caught my breath again so I will shorten my walking time here soon!

Dinner had also went well- we picked up some chinese food. What didn't go so well was the (TMI WARNING!!) crippling stomach cramps and *ahem* bathroom visits from 3 am to about 7 am. Yikes.

Good Day

2011-03-25T16:58:00.000-07:00

I had a great day today! Miss Kinsley let me sleep in until like 9:00, which is ALWAYS a good start to any day.

Then I decided to have a little "me" time and I went to Ottawa and tanned. Spare me the skin cancer lecture, I LOVE tanning. And if it gives me a good boost of self confidence then I am all for it.

After my special "me"time I came home and spent a bagillion years putting laundry away. I am always putting laundry away. And, like magic, the next day there will be more to put away yet again. Usually I hate this chore (it is my least favorite thing to do- I don't mind doing the laundry I just hate the putting it away part). But today it wasn't so bad.

Then around 5 I decided to do my jogging even though I felt WAY too lazy to do it today. I actually did great! I always do a 5 minute warm-up walk, then I jogged a mile (just a tad over), walked 3 minutes, jogged half a mile, walked 3 minutes, jogged .30 miles, walked 2 minutes then finished with another .30 miles. Or something like that anyway! I decided I need to limit my time in between runs. So I am going with 3 minutes for now, and will cut it back.

And boy are my legs ever sore! I love it :)

Back At It

2011-03-22T18:13:00.000-07:00

I decided that yesterday was the day. I HAD to get back in the routine of jogging again. The cold I had took its toll on me and I figured it would be tough.

I didn't think I was doing too great as I was jogging- I had to walk what seemed like a lot. But when I finished I realized that I had actually done just a few seconds better than I had before I was sick. And that made me happy.

So, I am back. I am ready to work my buns off for the 5k's coming up in May!

What I've been up to

2011-03-19T17:14:00.000-07:00

I am still attempting to jog. I did have one major delay in my progress: the common cold. Except it wasn't so common. It has lasted 2 weeks so far. And I have a lingering nasty cough still.

While I was sick I tried twice to run, but gave up pretty quickly into it both times. I also tried again this morning since I am feeling a bit better. I made it a bit more but then my cough attack started so I had to stop. So, hopefully in the next few days I shall be able to return to it like normal again. Hopefully I didn't lose too much of my progress. For now here are some cute kid pics:

Kinsley enjoying her first day outside since she was born. Its been cold and nasty ever since, so it was quite the experience for her! (She LOVED it!)

Soaking up some sun

And having a snack of lady fingers (haha, thats funny.)

Carter "Hee Hawing"

Kinsley wearing a super cute headband that I made her

Carter likes to "fix" my hair. To do this, he has to sit on my head.

On My Own

2011-03-08T13:55:00.000-08:00

I've decided to abandon the C25K program.

It worked great in the beginning, but it get's a little wierd as you get toward the end. Like last week it had me run 3 sets of 5 minute runs, then something like 5 min, 8 min, 5 min runs the next day and then on the third day I was supposed to do a 20 minute run.

This week was more of the same. It had 2 regular days and then the third day was a 25 minute run. And I am just not quite there yet. So, I decided to venture out on my own.

(And just FYI, I did do a workout the other day, I just didnt get to post about it- I worked out, showered, went shopping, went to Bryce's first Birthday party, then hosted a SURPRISE party for Darek. It was a very tiring day.)

Last night was my first "alone" night. No more Ms Potts telling me I only have 1 more minute to go. And you know what? It actually went better.

I didn't have a plan when I got on, other than just run as much as I could with short walks in between. I did a 5 minute warm-up walk then began jogging. I jogged for a WHOLE 15 MINUTES! That is like double what I have been able to do so far! I was excited. That was something like 1.25 miles, and I have never ran that far at once in my life.

I then walked for a few minutes and jogged, then walked some more when I needed to. I decided my new exercise plan is to do 3 miles each workout and just make sure that my time is better each time. That sounds a lot better to me!

My treadmill for today:

2011-03-03T15:38:00.000-08:00

I decided to run outside today. It was spectacular out- about 67 degrees and sunny. A bit windy, but much warmer than it has been in a long while.

This was the first time that I have ran outside. It was a different experience.

The bad: I had to run on gravel so I was in constant fear of twisting my ankle, it was windy and hard to run.

The good: It was a lot more entertaining to run outside with scenery, it was fun to see how far I could go, and the weather was amazing.

I tried doing the C25K workout for today but, as expected, I couldn't make it. It was run 20 minutes with no walking. And I KNEW I couldn't make it. But I did my best. I ran as much as I could, walked for just a few seconds when I couldn't, then ran some more. It was a lot of fun. And I know it was a good workout because the dogs were tired also! (Every dog on the farm decided to go for a run with me.) My muscles are a bit more tired than when I workout on the treadmill. Needless to say, I loved it. The only downfall is this is Kansas and the next several days are going to be cold and yucky.

I'm also thinking about signing up for another run- its just a mile and its in 2 weeks. We shall see.

Repeat of Week 5 Day 2

2011-03-01T18:10:00.000-08:00

(I repeated the last workout)

I was brave today. I didn't want to wait until 8pm to run today so I decided to attempt it while watching both children. Eek! It wasn't too bad- I turned on Dora the Explorer for Carter and he played with his toys. I put Kinsley in her bouncy seat and sat it right by the treadmill so she could still see me. She did pretty good- I made it throught the first 8 minute run before she got kind of mad again. I reached over during the 5 minute walk and bounced her back to sleep.

For some reason I have had a VERY difficult time with this particular workout. I can make it through the 8 minute run, of course I can make it through the walk, but i just CANNOT make it through the second 8 minute run! I only make it about 4 minutes before I have to take a walk break. So, I will try to do it yet another time and then move on. My next workout is supposed to be a 20 minute run. Yeah, right. How am I supposed to do that when I can't make it through 8 minutes?!? Like I said, I will do this one again, then if I'm ready to move on at that point I will just try my best at the 20 minute run and then move on.

Week 5 day 2 = FAIL :(

2011-02-27T18:35:00.000-08:00

(Week 5 day 2 was a 5 minute warm-up walk, an 8 minute run, 5 minute walk, 8 minute run then a cool down walk)

Today's workout didn't go so well. And by "didn't go so well" I mean it went terrible.

I started out strong. 5 minute warm-up walk and then the dreaded 8 minute jog. I was really proud of myself when I made it all the way through the jog. Then came the next 5 minute walk. I really didn't want to start jogging after that.

When Ms. Potts (is that right, Beth?) told me to start jogging in her English accent, or whatever accent it is, I kinda felt like punching her in the face. Or in my iPod, technically. Oh, wait. I forgot a part. Let me go back just a bit....

While I was doing the 5 minute walk I had some visitors. You see, I am a closet exerciser. I don't want to be seen or bothered while I am exercising. Especially when it is my ONLY time alone all day. Yet Carter felt like trying to lay down on the treadmill as I was doing my second 5 minute walk. I felt like I had to constantly watch where he was at because he was always attempting to stick some body part on the belt of the treadmill. And Darek saw this time as an opportunity to sit on our bed and talk on the phone. WHERE I WAS EXERCISING. So, I had lots of visitors tonight.

Ok, done with the back story. Did I mention I hate having visitors while exercising? I thought so. I finished the 5 minute walk hoping that the visitors would be gone by the time I had to jog, but no such luck. So I start jogging. I made it about 3 minutes into the jog and had to drag the younger visitor out of the room after repeatedly telling him to not put body parts on the belt. At that point, I was a bit irritated (quite the understatement!) and sat and waited for the older visitor to come watch the younger one so I could finish in PEACE.

I jogged another few minutes then gave up all together. I was frustrated and just DONE. I guess I will try again in 2 days.

Week 5 day 1

2011-02-25T09:51:00.000-08:00

(Todays workout was a 5 minute warm-up walk, jog 5 minutes, walk 3 minutes, jog 5 minutes, walk 3 minutes, jog 5 minutes then a 5 minute cool-down walk.)

I REALLY did not feel like jogging today. Not at all. Zilch motivation. But I had to do it, so I did. It was ok. I expected today to be easier than it was- it sounded easier than last week's workouts! But by the last 5 minute jog I was pooped. I made it, but just barely. This makes me really nervous for my next workout which is jog 8 minutes, walk 5 minutes, jog 8 minutes. Ick.

I feel like since I have been running I have been depriving everyone of cute kid pictures. Sorry. So here are a few to make it up:

(Carter eating an ice cream cone in my new car. Scary.)

(Fatty McFats-alot- she weighs almost 17lbs now)

(Mimi and the grandkids)

Last day of week 4!

2011-02-24T14:25:00.000-08:00

(Same workout as last time)

The workout went well, I completed it without croaking. I didn't have time until 8:00pm to run, so I had to do it on a semi-full stomach. That was no fun!

Anyway, next week will be interesting. Each day is a different workout. It will keep me on my toes.
I thought I would share with you my super Exercise List #1:

Black Eyed Peas- The Time
Black Eyed Peas- Don't Stop the Party
Ke$ha- We R who we R
Pink- Raise Your Glass
Nelly- Hot in Here
Enrique feat. Pit Bull- I Like It
Beyonce- Single Ladies
Black Eyed Peas- Do It Like This
Black Eyed Peas- The Best One Yet
Unk- Walk it Out

Don't judge me. This is just good stuff to run to! I would love to have an Exercise List #2, so if there are any suggestions out there I would appreciate them!

Week 4, Day 2

2011-02-21T18:54:00.000-08:00

(Same workout as the previous one! 16 total minutes of running- not all at once, though!)

I am doing it! I am closing in on the halfway point of the couch-to-5k (C25K for short) program. It is amazing. I want to thank Beth for being my personal cheerleader! I need you here to make me run further, though!

Tonight, I just did NOT feel like giving up. I did the 3 minute jog, then the 5 minute, then the other 3 minute and then I was down to the last 5 minute jog. Go big or go home. Time to do or die. Sh*t or get off the pot (as my dad would say).

You might recall (and if you don't, then just scroll down to the last post) that last time I did a bit of extra walking in between the last set of runs and then I took a break during the 5 minute jog. I figured I would end up doing that again tonight, but I didnt. I wanted to do it just to say that I did it without any breaks. And I made it.

And you know whats crazy? When the nice English lady told me I have 10 seconds left I felt like I could still run another minute if I had to.

P.S. Does anyone have any suggestions for a name for my nice English lady??

So, I lied.

2011-02-19T18:10:00.000-08:00

(Week 4- brisk 5 minute warm-up walk, jog 1/4 mile or 3 minutes, walk 90 seconds, jog 1/2 mile or 5 minutes, walk 2 1/2 minutes, jog 1/4 mile or 3 minutes, walk 90 seconds, jog 1/2 mile or 5 minutes)

Last time I wrote I said that I was going to do another day of week 3. But then I got to thinking: how will I ever go further if I don't just push myself? So why should I do an extra day of week 3 when I KNOW I can do the week 3 workout just fine?

I decided to be brave and try week 4. It sounded SUPER hard, and it was. I did the warm-up walk, jogged the 3 minutes (right now I am going to just go by the time because that is what the program does on my iPod. It should be pretty much right on with the distance), and then walked the 90 seconds. I still felt pretty good but I was sure I wouldn't make it through the 5 minutes. But I DID! I was so proud of myself. 5 WHOLE MINUTES! Then, it was a 2 1/2 minute walk, then I did the 3 minute jog just fine. But after that I was DEAD and so I extended the 90 second walk by about 2 minutes to catch my breath and decided to give the next 5 minute jog a shot. I made it about 3 minutes into it, took a 2 minute walk and then finished up the jog. After a 5 minute cool down walk I was pooped! But I feel great. I'm not even disappointed that I had to do some extra walking because I still did awesome.

I have also been getting a lot of compliments on my weight loss. That is always nice. But the best part is I notice it myself. I am a little less squishy and a little more fit and that is amazing. Anyway, after this week I am half-way through the 5k training!

Same old, same old.

2011-02-17T21:08:00.001-08:00

(still on the week 3 workout)

Ever have the feeling there are not enough hours in the day? Seriously, where did today go??

From the moment I woke up, it has been changing diapers, feeding children, entertaining children, more diapers, nap time for children, more food, play, diapers, snacks, play, supper, tv time and then hustling to get ready for bed time. Oh yeah, I did manage to exercise in there. Just barely though (and I had to miss some of my favorite show to make time).

I am trying to give Carter more of a schedule. I made a "Good Boy Board" to help us out some. There is this ride-on toy he wants from Wal-mart, so we are using that as incentive. There are 4 categories on the board: Pick up toys, go to bed on time, pee on the potty, and poop on the potty. Each time he does one of those things he gets a sticker on the board. 25 stickers in each category = the ride-on toy.

So far, it's going well. Carter had been going to bed at like 1130. it was a mess. So I wanted to change that. Now, at 9 he gets his jammies on (or bath if it's bath night), brushes his teeth, then we read books, he gets a bit of tv time, then lights off at 10. I know that sounds late by most peoples' standards, bur it is a vast improvement! And I managed to take a 2 second shower which i consider a luxury because I wasn't trying to fight him to get him to sleep!

Anyway, exercise went well tonight. No breaks- I completed the workout. I don't think I am ready for next week yet (it has a couple 3 min runs and a couple 5 min runs- EEEK!). I might do one more day of week 3 and then move on. We will see!

Week 3...continued.

2011-02-15T09:15:00.000-08:00

(Same workout)

Happy Valentine's Day (a day late!). Hope everyone had a great day! We went vehicle shopping and traded in our car for something a bit bigger. That way whenever we need to go anywhere (like when Darek's parents visit) we won't have to take 2 vehicles everywhere. So, it was a good day.

Today, I did another week 3 workout. Last time was AWESOME and this time not so much. I did great until the last 3 minute run. I paused for a minute to catch my breath, then i finished it. I always hate pausing because I feel like I failed the workout or that I ruined it or something. But I know this isn't the case. I also read that sometimes you have a bad workout and your next one is a breakthrough one where you just do amazing. So, I will accept that.

I also got a knee brace and that REALLY helps. No pain today! I am going to do one more week 3 workout then move on to week 4 (which sounds REALLY DIFFICULT. Ugh).

Week 3- whatever # I am on....

2011-02-13T18:26:00.000-08:00

(Same as previous workout!)

Today was an OK workout. I don't think that I am positive enough about the whole situation. I tend to think "Oh, I ONLY ran that much??" not "OMG! I am TOTALLY AWESOME for making it that far!!!". I'm not sure why this is. I am usually a very positive person.

Last workout I had a very hard time. This time my knee hurt like crazy but I MADE IT! I completed the entire workout with no stops or cheating.

I had a little help this time. I downloaded an app for my iPod- it is made especially for people doing the couch-2-5K program. It is awesome. I can still listen to my music, but it lowers the volume on it every now and then and tells me "Keep going! You only have XX seconds left" and "The next run will be 3 minutes, but you have done that already! You can do it!". I love it. It also told me something I hadn't thought about before. She (a lovely-voiced English woman) told me that I was doing a great job and to "just think, you just ran 3x more than you did just 2 weeks ago!". It was just the motivation I needed. :)

Week 3

2011-02-11T12:13:00.001-08:00

(Week 3- 5 minute warm up walk, jog 90 seconds, walk 90 seconds, jog 3 MINUTES *GASP*, walk 3 minutes, jog 90 seconds, walk 90 seconds, jog ANOTHER 3 MINUTES, walk 3 minutes)

Instead of doing an extra day of week 2's workouts, I decided to go ahead and try week 3. I wanted to push myself (especially after last week- I felt like giving up).

I went into today's workout just KNOWING that I could not run 3 minutes. I mean, come on. That is over 400 yards. I can't do that! But I wanted to try. So, I stretched extra good (some of my joints are super sore, so I was hoping that would help), and began my warm up walk. I did the 90 seconds, walked the 90 seconds, and then it was time. I actually made it the WHOLE 3 minutes. I was shocked. I felt like I was going to croak, but I DID IT! I walked 3 minutes, did the last 90 second jog then walk. And I just couldn't do the last 3 minute jog. No way. I decided to walk an extra minute to see if I could catch up enough to try it. I decided to give it a shot. I made it about 2 minutes, stopped for a minute to catch my breath, then ran for about 30 more seconds. I walked a bit more to cool down.

It wasn't a COMPLETE failure. I was happy I made it through the first 3 minutes, and I really did come close on the second set. Hopefully in the next workout or two I can get 'er done.

Week 2/Day 6

2011-02-09T18:42:00.000-08:00

I hate the cold weather. I mean, REALLY hate it. It's supposed to get down to -4 degrees tonight. With a wind chill of NEGATIVE 15 to 20. That's really freaking cold. And I can feel it in my bones.

Bone-wise, I am probably the equivalent of a 70 year-old woman. Its bad. And since it is so freaking cold outside my bones HURT. They ache and crunch and scrape and groan. And I limp, and creak and hobble along. Tonight, it was my knees that were the worst. Usually it is anything that has been previously broken (i.e., my ankle, my heel, my cheek, my finger, etc.). I guess it decided to mix it up a bit.

Anyway, I still exercised. It hurt. A lot.

I also need to find the best time for me to jog. I have been doing it at about 8pm when mom gets home from work and can watch the 2 kiddos. But after watching the 2 kiddos alone all day, I am pretty much pooped by that time. And since little miss Kinsley really doesnt like to be put down, I dont have much choice. I will have to try to come up with something.

Also, I think I will do one more day of Week 2 even though I should be starting week 3.

Week 2- Day 5

2011-02-07T18:30:00.000-08:00

(Day 5 is walk 5 min for warm up, jog 90 sec, walk 2 min and repeat that for 20 minutes)

Today was day number 2 of the new week of exercises. Last time, I felt like I was going to die before the 90 seconds of jogging were up. Tonight, I felt like I was going to die, but maybe a little less painfully. It wasn't too bad. But I was thinking about how last week I was about to die during the 60 second jogs. I would give my right leg to go back to that! (Ok, not really). So, its funny how now 60 is nothing anymore. I know one day I will think about how 90 seconds was nothing, and then how the 3 minute jog was nothing (thats next week and I am nervous!), etc.

Anyway

, things are going good- I've lost 10 lbs since I had Kinsley. That puts me about 6 lbs under my normal weight. I am very happy with that and only 4 lbs from my SUPER-ULTIMATE goal. I have a feeling I am going to pass that like its nothing :)

Oh, and I was still alive at the end of the workout tonight, so I walked an extra 5 minutes to see how far I could get in the 30 minutes. By May my goal will be to run the whole 3 miles in 30 minutes.

P.S. I have tried SEVERAL times to edit and post this so it isn't all squished together like it is. And for some reason it won't work. So, sorry.

Week 2

2011-02-05T18:48:00.000-08:00

(Day 4- first day of week 2. The exercises are: 5 min warm-up walk, jog 90 seconds, walk 2 minutes, jog 90 seconds, walk 2 minutes, repeat until 25 minutes is up)

(and my new hair)

Today was the first day of Week 2. Ugh. My legs are TIRED! I really didnt think I was going to make it. And I cheated on the last set- I gave up about 10 seconds early to prevent myself from having a heart attack.

Anyway, I went and got my hair done today. Back to blonde again! Love it. And we added a few dabs of pink in the back just for some spice!

Day 3 (repeated....)

2011-02-03T18:46:00.000-08:00

(Insert boring treadmill picture HERE but since I dont have one today I will insert a cute baby picture THERE)

I don't have a treadmill picture today. I was jogging like a maniac and accidentaly hit the emergency stop thingy on the treadmill. So, I had to start again and so it looked like I only worked out for 5 minutes. Whoops.

Todays exercise was ok. I feel like I'm going to croak while I am doing it and then as soon as I am done and my breath is caught again I feel great. Like right now for example. I finished about an hour ago and feel like I would be able to go again. Maybe I should go for longer?

Anyway, tomorrow will be my "off" day and then I think I will attempt to start the next week. Week 2's exercises are: Brisk 5 minute warm up walk, then alternate 90 seconds of jogging and two minutes of walking for a total of 20 minutes. I am kind of nervous about this because I am pooped after 60 seconds of jogging. This will be the time when I need someone like they have on TV yelling at me that I can do it and dont stop, etc. But I am not a bagillionaire so I do not have a personal trainer. Let's hope the Black Eyed Peas will be an ok substitute.

Tonight I experimented with going a bit faster than I had been going. It was a bit easier, so maybe I was going too slow. I think I will go the slower speed for my 90 second jog and see how it goes.

Also, I really don't like having an off day. This program suggests it so that way your muscles have a chance to rest and heal. And I agree that this is necessary, I just feel weird not doing anything on my off days. So, I think I am going to walk on the treadmill on those days. Nothing major, just a slow steady walk to make me happy.

More updates to follow :)

Day 3

2011-02-02T15:20:00.000-08:00

(Day 3 is the same exercises as day 1. It is supposed to be the last of that exercise routine)

I learned a very valuable lesson during yesterdays workout. Do not, I repeat, DO NOT exercise right before lunch time.

I tend to have problems with my blood sugar dropping if I don't eat at the same time each day or if I skip a meal. I get sick or light headed and just feel like poop. And for some reason I had decided that right before lunch yesterday would be the perfect time to exercise. Wrongo.

Even from the very beginning I felt tired and that the time was passing too slow when I wanted it to go fast (during the jog part) and much too fast when I wanted it to go slow (during the walk time). I was pretty sure I was either going to pass out or just give up before I made it very far. But I kept going and made it through the workout. Just barely. I didnt do any extra, I gave right up as soon as I was done.

So, I think tomorrow when I should be moving on to the next week's exercises I will actually repeat day 3.

And I won't be exercising before any mealtimes again.

OH! And as you can see above, I got an iPod finally! I LOVE IT! I got an iPod touch and let me tell you, it is amazing. It makes it much more fun to run now that I can listen to music!

Day 2. Yuck.

2011-01-30T18:24:00.000-08:00

(Day 2 exercises are the same as Day 1)

I have a migraine today.

If you have never had one, consider yourself LUCKY. Sounds hurt. Lights hurt. Screaming children in my ears hurt. And the only way to get any relief is through my prescription medication that makes me feel funny and takes a while to work.

I'm looking for applause here. Why? Because not only did I make it out of bed today, but I exercised today even though I had a migraine.

Now I am going to go die.

P.S. I know the treadmill screen pics are boring, but it helps me keep track!

P.P.S. I need an iPod. Like pronto.

Day One

2011-01-28T14:04:00.000-08:00

(Day one consists of a 5 minute brisk warm-up walk, jog for 60 seconds, walk for 90, then repeat the jog/walk cycle for 20 minutes. I did an extra 2 minutes, 37 seconds just so I could burn 200 calories today.)

Today was the first day of the "Couch to 5K" program. Let's start from the beginning, shall we?

Carter has been sick. So has my mom. And because of this, we made a trip to visit Dr. Ransom this morning. We got Carter some antibiotics, as well as Grammy, and visited for a minute. He asked if we had any other questions about anything else. I did.

You know those commercials (or ads you see) about exercise programs? And then at the bottom in teeny-tiny print it says consult your doctor before you start any exercise regimine? Well, I decided to take their advice and consult my doctor.

"What do you think the chances are of me breaking a hip if I try to run a 5k?"

Dr Ransom (with a frowny face on): "Well, I can't DISCOURAGE you, but I wouldn't recommend it. But, I could meet you at the finish line with a stretcher." He seriously said that. I suggested maybe a wheelchair instead- that would be less embarrassing.

He then told us about his daughter slipping and breaking her ankle. I think he was trying to scare me.

Anyway, I'm still going to do it. I can't live every day in fear of a broken bone, right? Plus, he REALLY would have had a heart attack if I would have told him about my ski-trip plans in a year.

So, after consulting my Dr., and him being put on the record as not totally approving of it, I decided to begin the program. Day number 1. Let me tell you, I wanted to die. I'm sure bajillions of people have done this program, it even says as much on their website. And I'm at least SOME were in worse shape than I am, but holy cow. How do people run? I felt like all of my joints had glass in them! And body parts were flapping here and there (not a pretty picture, I know, trust me). And I was gasping. And sweating. And cursing. But I made it. Without even cheating.

I credit Day one to the Black Eyed Peas. And the fact that tomorrow is an off day.

Couch to 5k

2011-01-27T07:59:00.000-08:00

(I think Carter can run for longer than I can.)

I got a text from my BFF Courtney today. "Think you would wanna run a 5k in May?" My response? "Haha, that is hilarious." Me? Run? I don't think so.

But I kept thinking about it. It is for a VERY good cause. But can I seriously run?

I have been exercising on my treadmill for a few weeks now. But each time I try to run I end up in pain or just plain exhausted or thinking I'm having a heart attack. So I speed walk and jog now and then. I guess the main reason I haven't been pushing myself is that I have no goal to work toward (other than wanting to lose weight). I haven't had a reason to really push myself. And this would be a good goal.

BUT I have high cholesterol. Super high. Like 300. And the beginning stages of osteoporosis. By running I would pretty much be asking for a heart attack or a broken hip. But aren't these reason of why I shouldn't run the exact same reasons why I should?

One of my next questions to Courtney was: "Are you going to run the whole thing?" That's 3 miles! That may not seem like a lot to some people (*cough* Beth *cough*). But I seriously can't even run like a quarter of a mile! But she told me to check out this website. It's the Couch to 5K program.

I checked out the first couple weeks to see if I thought it would kill me or not. It didn't seem too life-threatening. So, I will give it a shot. It is an 8 week program. I have like 15 weeks. That means if I feel I cannot move on from a week just yet then I can do it an extra week until I am ready. Perfect.

Only one more thing could save me from this certain death-by-5K. No babysitter. I looked at the calender and discovered that this should be moms weekend off. I called her at work secretly hoping that the schedule would change and she would be on for that Saturday. But nope. She was even nice enough to volunteer to request a day off just so I could do it. Aww, shucks. Thanks, mom.

So, I text Courtney back. "Ill do it."

Sigh

2011-01-23T00:32:00.000-08:00

I'm feeling spectacular lately. Why?

You see, I have been (prepare yourself...) EXERCISING.

Are you still there? Did you pass out from shock?!?

I know. I've been a bum and have never been one to exercise. And the last time I attempted to I ended up with 2 walking cast things on. Not cool. This time, however, I'm doing it right. Starting out slowly. Wearing proper shoes so I don't break my ankle. Stuff like that.

Anyway. I have also been dieting a bit. I am proud to say I have lost 8lbs since I had kinsley. That puts me a good 3 to 4 lbs under the weight I was before I got pregnant with her. And I feel motivated to keep going- 6 more pounds to my goal weight!

I don't mean to sound like I'm tooting my own horn here, but TOOT TOOT!
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Snowbird

2011-01-12T10:23:00.000-08:00

It is 6 degrees outside. Six. The wind chill is -11. NEGATIVE ELEVEN!! If I ever questioned why old people head south for the winter, I now know why.

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I'm bringing big hair back, baby!

2011-01-05T06:43:00.000-08:00

Ok, here is my theory: the bigger the hair, the skinnier you look. Make sense?

Here is my argument. You give yourself the biggest hair possible. Your head then looks abnormally large. But your head is actually normal size, right? So your big head seems too large for your body. But your body is actually normal size also, right? So your abnormally large (normal) head makes your normal body look small.

Did you give up after that? No? Good.

I don't actually think I am fat. In fact, I think I look pretty good for having just had a baby less than 2 months ago. But everyone usually wants to shed a few pounds. And diet and exercise are ok (I've actually begun exercising for the first time since my last exercising accident), but if big hair works then that is even better!

I will let you know how today goes with my large head.

P.S. This works for her and her so why not??

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I've been busy...

2010-12-29T17:47:00.000-08:00

sewing. Check out my stuff here. They make great presents if you know someone who is expecting (or if you are expecting yourself)!

WARNING- There is an EXTREMELY cute picture below...

2010-12-16T19:16:00.000-08:00

I found a new favorite thing to make- flowers. I put them on these little hair clip things so really you could put them in your hair, on a headband, on your scarf, on your purse, pretty much anywhere you want to add a little something.

I made these four in just a short time tonight. LOVE THEM! (Hey, that belongs on yesterday's post)

Love

2010-12-15T08:46:00.000-08:00

I am in LOVE today. Either it is because it is my birthday or because I just had a baby and have super crazy hormones. No matter the cause, I LOVE it. So, here is a list of what I LOVE today (besides the normal stuff such as my snuggly baby, my son, my husband, my family, etc.)

I LOVE being 27 (ok, I hated the thought of it yesterday, but today its all good)

I LOVE this website. ITS AMAZING! It has how to make pretty much anything you would want to make. The patterns are reasonably priced ($5 ish) which is great and you can download them automatically.

I LOVE Hobby Lobby. That was one of my Birthday requests today. The others are as follows: go to Target, Longhorn for supper, Starbucks for hot chocolate, Peels for a new hair dryer, and a drive around Ottawa to see the Christmas lights.

I LOVE these:

They are SUPER cute rings. I found them super cheap on groopdealz.com. DON'T LOOK, BETH! There may be one coming your way! :)

I also LOVE this website- it has a lot of free patterns and ideas. Its great! (You will notice that I put buttons of these on the left side of my blog. Thats how much I LOVE them.)

And check out the button on the right for super cute headbands. I saw them when I was visiting nienie's blog today. There was so much cute stuff on there. LOVE.

Ok, that's enough for one day. I hope I didn't smother you with my LOVE :)

Handmade = the best

2010-12-04T19:02:00.000-08:00

Since I recently gave birth (that sounds weird since it was a c-section, but what else would I say? Since I had my child cut out of my tummy?) to the cutest little girl ever, I have been searching for the cutest stuff for her. I have cute hats, tights, shoes, outfits, pretty much everything. Except for some of the necessities. Like burp rags and pacifier clips. I looked and looked for cute ones that don't have Winnie the Pooh on them or anything like that (no offense, if you are a winnie the pooh fan, its just not my style). So, I decided to make my own. Here they are- the pictures don't do them justice- they are SUPER cute.

My flash is terrible so the colors don't show up as cute as they really are. I love how they turned out! I have about 10 different fabrics and I plan on selling them. Want one?? :)

INTRODUCING......

2010-11-22T06:47:00.001-08:00

Kinsley Marie

7lbs 130z

19.5" long

and PERFECT!

My Dear Handsome Son

2010-11-04T12:58:00.000-07:00

Oh, Carter, you are the light of my life. I hope you always have the same attitude that you have now (except maybe minus the terrible 2's).

I absolutely love how you are my little farmer. Everyday, you ride your tractor or tricycle and you are always "bailing hay," or something farm-related. You get so excited to feed range cubes to the cows, gather the eggs, feed the cats and chickens and feed the dogs. You are going to be a hard worker just like your daddy.

Here in just a few days you are going to be taking on a new roll. Big Brother. I know you will do great- you absolutely love babies (especially Baby Ian and Baby Violet). I hope you never feel left out or like we don't have enough time for you as we are adjusting to having your little sister with us. And I hope you give her lots of kisses and hugs so she knows just how great her big brother is.

Maybe you can even take her on a tractor ride when she gets bigger.

You are the best son anyone could ask for (and the cutest, but that is my opinion). We love you!

Say "Cheeseburger"!

2010-11-02T04:25:00.000-07:00

(That's Carter dressed up for Halloween, in case you didn't recognize him in all his cheeseburger glory. And Hans the hot dog.)

Halloween went over pretty well. This was Carter's first time trick-or-treating. Last year we were so busy trying to get Buzzard's ready to open that by the time I could get Carter ready to go he fell asleep in the car. Needless to say, he loved it.

Note to self: Don't take Hans with us next year (even if he is dressed up as a hot dog). He was a mess the whole time.

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Almost there

2010-10-30T05:32:00.000-07:00

(Carter sleeping his way through Wal-mart. This has nothing to do with anything, but its cute, so there.)

There really isn't anything interesting going on at the moment to post about. I go to my weekly Dr.'s appointments, I sit with my feet up (or they get HUGE) and I try to take it easy. That pretty much sums it up right now.

Today, however, I am going to attempt to make a trip to Wal-mart or Michaels and get some dye to dye some onesies. We shall see how that goes. Last time I was in Wal-mart I seriously thought I was going to die. I kept forgetting stuff and would have to walk all the way to the other end, only to realize I forgot something back at the other end and so on. It was bad. I thought my belly was going to fall off. But when I text Darek to inform him that I doubt I left there without either going into labor or leaving in a body bag he was sympathetic enough to reply "ok, let me know.". So, I replied that if I died I wouldn't be able to text him to which he replied that he was sure someone I knew would be at walmart and let him know. Ahh, husbands.

Anyway, I only have a week and a couple days left before I am even busier, so I will keep you updated (unless I croak, then hopefully someone I know will let you know, har har).
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Ahhh, Fall- I heart you.

2010-10-20T20:39:00.000-07:00

(The annual buzzard pumpkin for our Buzzard's!)

Ahh, I love this time of year. Halloween costume shopping, candy-eating, cooler weather, caramel apples, and Thanksgiving planning.

And since I procrastinated enough on a Halloween costume for Carter, I found one for $10 at Old Navy this past weekend. Not bad, I say! And today I purchased one for Hans on eBay to go along with Carter's. Good times.

I have also spent the last few days racking my brain for Christmas present ideas. I'm trying to get as much done for that as possible, considering the difficulty I will have finding time for shopping with a newborn. Luckily, I started early and have about 5 presents bought already and numerous other ideas for everyone else.

Did I mention its time for Thanksgiving planning?!? I thought so- I'm just excited.

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20 days

2010-10-19T12:12:00.000-07:00

(Only 20 more days of this big belly!)

It's hard to believe that in 20 days we will have a little girl. I will no longer have this giant belly, shortness of breath, pain pretty much EVERYWHERE. There will be no more weekly appointments or any of that fun stuff.

There will be a surgery, a cute baby and lots of sleepless nights.

And hopefully there will be a little boy that adjusts well and never feels neglected. (That is my biggest worry!)

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Busy, busy, busy

2010-10-17T20:07:00.000-07:00

(The house lit up after our weenie roast.)

This past week was crazy. In a good way, though! Jared and Beth arrived on Sunday and left yesterday. We had so much fun and did lots of running around (antique store, Freestate Brewery, Mass St, Old Navy, the orchard, etc.). Then Carter had his pictures taken by Aundrea- I will post them next week!

And tomorrow I have a Dr. appt then pretty much a full rest of the week. (Not to mention that a baby will be here 3 weeks from Tuesday!) I will keep you filled in as long as I can keep up with everything!
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FINALLY!

2010-10-10T15:56:00.000-07:00

(Watching the world go 'round from one of the couches.)

The past hour has brought the weather I have been waiting [not-so] patiently for. The day started out chilly, but warmed up quite a bit by lunch time. Like mid-eighties. Enough to make me sweat like a teenage boy. (Or a 2 year old- Carter sweats a ton!)

And now, finally, the storm has brought COOL weather. And hopefully relief from my heat-related swelling.

P.S. I sent this before it was done, so here is the FULL one. And I can't fix it because I am still disconnected from the world (we get internet on the 20th!).

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FINALLY!

2010-10-10T15:12:00.000-07:00

(Watching the world go 'round from one of the couches.)

The past hour has brought the weather I have been waiting [not-so] patiently for. The day started out chilly, but warmed up quite a bit by lunch time.
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Who knew?

2010-10-08T18:57:00.000-07:00

(Our new room- not quite finished putting everything away yet, but its coming along nicely!)

Who knew that we could fit our whole house into one room? I didn't think it would be possible. Granted, a lot of stuff is in storage, but we have the important stuff all in one room! I'm amazed.

Anyway, we are adjusting to farm living. Carter LOVES it, of course. And I haven't had fast food since breakfast Sunday morning- that is some kind of record for me. Darek doesn't seem to mind the extra 15 minutes added to his drive. And the best part is that I don't have to go up or down stairs 12,000 times a day.

Anyway, I am disconnected from the outside world for another 2 weeks or so- we don't have the internet out here yet. It will be set up on the 20th, so I will be updating more then!

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Little bits

2010-09-25T14:28:00.000-07:00

(Carter at Wellsville Days today)

Here are little bits of what's going on in our lives at the moment:

Wellsville Days took place today, keg at Buzzards broke so I had to go to Wal-mart and get beer. Picture this: Carter, me, my 8-month pregnant belly, and a cart full of beer standing in line.

The baby is doing well, and I only have 6 weeks to go! Still not gaining weight like I'm supposed to and she has decided to hang out in the breech position.

Carter is doing well- except the terrible 2's are rough on us all. He has been quite the handful lately.

We have been getting moms house all ready for us to come stay with them for a bit. Packing at our house has begun.

Baby shower on October 2nd, moving to moms on October 3rd, appointment on October 4th, chamber of commerce meeting October 5th... I shall stop there, that list goes on and on!

Oh! And we FINALLY got an offer on our house! Now we just have to wait and see what the bank says about it since it is lower than what we owe on it. Hopefully they will just accept it and we can be done! Keep your fingers crossed for us!
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Ughhh

2010-09-17T17:57:00.000-07:00

I am tired. You know how I know? Well, not just because my eye bags have their own eye bags, or because my eyes are permanently bloodshot nowadays. But, mainly by the fact that I feel so tired that I just don't quite know if ill have energy to breathe for the entire day.

Today, I sat on mom's couch. She chased Carter around and I sat there. I got up and got a water every now and then (or got rid of the water if you know what I mean) and that was it. Oh, well, I did get up to eat. But, mostly I sat there.

Hopefully tomorrow I will have more motivation to do something. Anything. (Including chasing my child wherever he wants to go.) Wish me luck (and while you are at it, can you wish the last 7 weeks to go by quickly?!?).

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Ughhh

2010-09-17T17:53:00.000-07:00

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Times are changing

2010-09-15T05:39:00.001-07:00

(The stormy sky this morning)

Ok, so really its just me changing. You see, I used to LIVE for summer. The hotter the better, the long days, heck, even the humidity. But this year has been so different. It could be the fact that I am very pregnant and was sweating from EVERYWHERE this summer. But, it could just be because of how wonderful fall is.

I woke up this morning thinking about how I used to be so disappointed when I woke up to a stormy, dark morning. But now I wish it was every morning. (And not just because it looks like its 5am inside my bedroom and Carter might sleep till who-knows-when). Its just so darn cozy laying in bed, listening to the thunder rumbling. Not to mention the other fabulous fall things to do- go to the pumpkin patch/orchard, decorate for fall, get ready for Halloween, take pictures of the changing leaves, and of course my favorite holiday- Thanksgiving!

So, Happy Fall morning to everyone, may you enjoy it as much as I am!

P.S. I do realize its a week until it is "officially" fall, but its here in my mind (and bedroom window)!
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A Quick One

2010-09-13T09:03:00.000-07:00

(Why can't everything be as simple as it is to a child?)

Just wanted to do a quick (whine, rant, pity party) post. I have a lot on my mind, so why not dump some of it off on here?

Darek and I found this vehicle that we love. It would give us a lot more room for everything- it has a 3rd row of seats. Its a used Nissan Pathfinder. But we can't have it. We were silly enough to test drive it (overnight!). Just long enough to get attached.

But the real purpose of this is to not whine about that, but to talk about my extreme need to FORCE things. Everything. We tried to get a loan from one place it was a no. The other place required us to put some money down and it might not even work then. So, why not just walk away? Because I have to try to MAKE everything work even when I say I won't.

Darek and I had agreed from the beginning that if this doesn't work then we will just walk away. That was Friday. And we are still trying to force it to work today. I know that if we just walk away and its supposed to be ours then it will just happen somehow. But that is so darn hard when you are as stubborn as we are.

Anyway, hopefully by the end of the day we will get our final answer and just be done with it for a while. Maybe then we can get some sleep and I can stop stressing so much! (And I need to figure out if it is truly this that is stressing me out or if its something else entirely)

Thanks for lending me your ear (eyes!), even though this turned out to be a not-so-quick one.
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Not Gonna Happen

2010-09-10T06:55:00.000-07:00

(My cankle after a long day yesterday. )

I'm having a hard time getting out of bed this morning. Like, seriously. I usually am pretty much a morning person and can get right up and get going. I'm the type that HATES laying in bed after the alarm clock goes off- I feel the need to get up and get going.

But not this morning. I nudged Darek a sufficient number of times to guarantee that he was awake and then I just stayed in bed. Carter woke up and went to help daddy take a bath (someone has to hand him his towel or get him soap if he is out, and Carter is the perfect person for the job). And still, I was in bed.

Darek then gets done getting ready for the day, plays with Carter some and then him and Carter went downstairs. I figured I HAD to get up then- a 2 year old downstairs + a mom upstairs = some sort of disaster will happen.

I did make it out of bed. Got my contacts in, crazy hair into a pony tail so that way my husband won't have that lovely picture of me in his head when he goes to work. And then I decided to go on a breakfast strike. I will eat breakfast, and make it occasionally, but on mornings like this, its not happening. Its the 31-weeks-pregnant-i-NEED-rest-breakfast-strike.

Luckily mom is on her way to pick up Carter for the day (I get to go waitress again today- just like yesterday and the day before- hence the swollen ankles). One quick call to her and breakfast is on its way. :)

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Treats

2010-09-02T19:18:00.001-07:00

(Yummy treats from Nana's Fudge-N-Stuff)

I have found my new favorite store! Its a little shop here in Ottawa called Nana's Fudge-n-stuff. Its heaven. I've heard of it before but never been there. Its this tiny little place FILLED with truffles and fudge and cookies and candies. My kind of place!

So, I decided to go there for the first time today. I may have to go back tomorrow. I purchased 3 medium size sugar cookies (you should see the large ones!), one no bake cookie for Darek, a peanut butter rice krispy treat, some peanut butter fudge and a sucker. It came to $9- not bad! Anyway, the cookies are AMAZING, hence the need to go back tomorrow.

Don't you love it when you find places like that?!?

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Rainy day!

2010-09-01T06:40:00.000-07:00

(I wish I could stay in bed and snuggle with this guy all day)

Its raining like crazy outside right now. And I LOVE it! That means that it's almost fall and the days are getting shorter and cooler (yay!).

Yesterday was 100 degrees with a heat index of 110. Today, it is supposed to be around 80 degrees and rainy, and I am happier than ever! I would stay in bed ALL day but I have a meeting @ 10:30 and then the house is being shown at noon. Oh, and then we have to move our stuff from our storage unit to a larger one. That is, if the rain leaves for a bit.

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Hello, Whine-1-1? This is Emily again.

2010-08-30T12:39:00.001-07:00

I need to write a whiney post today. Sorry. And it's pictureless to top it all off.

You see, I am still not getting much sleep at night. Do I need to remind you why?? My space on my side of the bed is decreasing, even as my girth is increasing. Carter has been doing pretty well about sleeping in his own bed, but every once in a while he sneaks back in a mere hour after we put him in his room. And if he doesnt? Well, then, I am up every few hours to make sure he is still breathing.

And did I mention my extreme hip pain? I should mention it to my Dr. I am sure, but when I get to my appointments I am like a smiling idiot robot that can only nod and say "Everything is going great!". Because I dont want to whine to a complete stranger, just to you guys. I'm nice like that. Except that stranger isn't really a stranger, she is my Dr. who has seens lots more of me than most people.

I feel kind of sorry for myself now, so I'm going to go take a nap :)

Different

2010-08-25T14:45:00.000-07:00

(A dark view of my bedroom this morning)

This morning has been a bit different then other mornings lately. Last night, mom stopped by and Carter went to stay the night at her house. So, I am minus a child and the kicks in the head and spine that comes along with him after he sneaks into our bed at 2am or so.

Another difference? The BEAUTIFUL weather. So beautiful that I typed that all in capital letters. Did you notice? Anyway, it is 58 degrees outside. If I could capitalize numbers I would have just then. And those 58 degrees felt just right with our window open all night and the ceiling fan on. When I get out of the shower this morning I will get chilly- not instantly sweaty again (tmi, I know).

Oh, and Darek had to leave for Buzzards a bit earlier than usual to receive one of our trucks. So that means I am all alone in a quiet, cool house.

What did I do, you might be asking? I did what any normal person would do in the same situation- I ran downstairs, got some Nutty Bars and a bottle of water, ran back upstairs to get under the covers and eat breakfast in bed.
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Shopping Day!

2010-08-24T16:23:00.000-07:00

(The super cute purse I bought- it was $50- got it for $19)

(Can't go wrong with little girl tights!)

(Jeans for Carter this fall- I got them for $10/pair then 25% off that. Not bad.)

(My favorite find. I was LOVING the one diaper bag I posted about a while back but it was $218 and that was going to take up all of my shopping money left over from the garage sale. I even held it in the fossil store. *Sigh*. But then we went to Dillards and I saw this bag. Its also Fossil brand, was $118 on sale for $95. And since this was like our last stop and I had about $150 left, I bought it. Its going to be perfect!!)

As mentioned before, Courtney and I had a MUCH needed girls-only shopping spree on Sunday. I thought I would share with you my purchases. Not pictured is the properly named "Incredible" bra from Victoria's Secret. It is truly amazing. You don't ever adjust the straps- they are self adjusting- and you can get front closure ones (great for nursing!). Also not pictured: the one neopolitan truffle I got from Godiva, the 3 crab rangoons that I forgot to eat even though I was SUPER excited about them, and lunch from Mi Ranchito. I'm sure you can imagine the greatness of all those things.

Anyway, if anyone wants to send me donations I would be more than happy to do some more shopping and post pictures of my finds. You know. Out of the kindness of my heart. ;)

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Beautiful Sight

2010-08-23T13:43:00.000-07:00

(Our dining room at Buzzards at about 3pm)

As a business woman, I hate seeing our dining room empty. It should be full ALL the time. (We did have a good lunch crowd, though!) BUT, as the fill-in waitress this week, this was a sight for sore eyes.

You see, I am not used to being on my feet a lot. And I have a big belly that bumps into stuff. So it makes things a bit difficult. But I survived today and now I am going to reward myself with a nap. Adios!
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Easy & Delicious Breakfast!

2010-08-21T07:13:00.000-07:00

(My breakfast work of art)

I am always looking for a fast and easy recipe that doesn't taste like cardboard. I was specifically looking for breakfast ideas since that is the meal we get to eat together as a family. (We needed to get out of our frozen waffle rut.)
I came across this recipe in a magazine and altered it to the needs of my family (no veggies, make it cheesy, etc.). Here is how you do it:

1. Fry some sausage (or your meat of choice).
2. Scramble some eggs (I used 4 farm fresh eggs).
3. Take one roll of refrigerated pizza dough (13.8 oz) and unroll it on a greased cookie sheet.
4. If you are like me, now is the point when you remember to preheat your oven, so preheat it to 425 degrees.
5. Pat out the pizza dough just a bit to make it about 15"x10". Make diagonal cuts down the 2 longest sides (make the cuts about 2" long or just be sure to leave enough room in the middle for the goodies you cooked).
6. We like things cheesy, so I put 4 slices of cheese on the uncut part, top it with your eggs and sausage. I then added 2 more slices cut in half on top.
7. Now take the diagonal pieces you cut into the dough and just fold them over the top. Press the ends a bit to seal. Cook at 425 for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

The best thing about this recipe, besides it being delicious, is that you can put anything you want in it. Put sauce and pepperoni in it for a calzone type supper. Put veggies in it for, well, whatever you do with veggie stuff. Enjoy!
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Girls Day Out

2010-08-20T18:43:00.000-07:00

(He is super cute, but not invited)

As I type this on my lovely phone, I keep thinking about how it is FRIDAY!! And normally that would not matter to me, but about 6 weeks ago Courtney and I decided to figure out a day for us to go shopping. And by "us" I mean Courtney and I- no Carter or Bryce or husbands or anyone- just us girls. We compared schedules and came up with a Saturday about 6 weeks away. Something came up so it got bumped to Sunday. Our babysitters are set (thanks mom and Stan!) and *knock on wood* nothing else has come up.

So, here I sit, excited that our girls shopping day is only a few days away! I will share with you our awesome finds on Monday :)
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Large and In Charge

2010-08-19T16:02:00.000-07:00

That's how I've been feeling lately. A bit large around the ol' mid section. But I am grateful that I am one of the pregnant people that is ALL belly- I don't gain really anywhere else. If you see me from the back I look like normal me. And I am feeling good! Ok, still hot out but its a bit better now. So, here in a new baby bump pic. I actually fixed my hair today instead of just a pony tail so I had to mark the occasion with a picture.
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Ohmygoodness

2010-08-18T13:00:00.001-07:00

I just realized I haven't posted since the 9th. Over a week ago. And here I had promised I would do better. Tisk, tisk.

I have several good excuses though. The first involves the 3 words that sends shivers down my spine (the bad kind) and makes me grit my teeth: Corporate Tax Time. Ugh, I feel horrible just saying it. But this time not only did I have to get the rest of 2009 entered, but Bob asked me to do 2010 up-to-date also. So that took days and days of my time. I stayed in pj's and put my hair in scary pony tails. My office looked like a paper tornado tore through it.

Second, summer colds have NOT been our friend. Carter got sick, then Darek, mom and dad all at the same time, then Carter got better and about a week later I got it (I thought I was in the clear). Then I got over it (with a little help from my friend amoxicillin). Then a few days later Carter started running a fever again. Another sinus infection (this past week). So another Dr visit, more meds and he seems to be feeling a bit better again. But very grouchy.

Third excuse- I'm pregnant. I had some energy a few weeks ago and *poof* its gone now. I'm so extremely tired.

Again, I will try to do better to keep my 1 reader updated (thanks, Beth!). But I know you understand and all of my excuses will not fall on deaf ears (especially the last one).
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Dream

2010-08-09T17:49:00.000-07:00

I had my first baby dream last night. I know lots of people dream about their babies when they are pregnant, but not me. I usually just have super crazy dreams. But last night I had my first dream where I had my baby girl and she was an actual baby that I could see (I've had dreams where I knew I had her but never saw her). She was a big baby and she was beautiful. So, now I feel motivated to get stuff purchased and set up and ready! I am officially excited!
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Garage sale

2010-08-07T16:59:00.001-07:00

This weekend I had a garage sale at our place. Needless to say, it was HUGE! Lots of junk, er, treasures. Anyway, we made enough that I can go buy a car seat, a new rocking chair and probably still have enough for Carter some fall clothes! It was definitely worth setting out in the 95 degree heat!

Here is Carter's treasure that he found. He is attached now.
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Deal of the day

2010-08-03T18:22:00.000-07:00

Today I got 4 new tires on my car. $550 worth the new tires to be exact. So I wasn't expecting to buy anything while shopping to waste time while they were putting the tires on.

We went in Blue Dandelion (where everything is SUPER cute but out of my price range). I found several cute outfits but, at around $30 for a onesie, was about to leave empty handed. Then I had to check out the clearance section like I do in every store. And there it was. A super cute bedding set. I haven't looked at any bedding for our little girl that will be arriving in November, and really wasn't sure what I would be looking for color-wise. But when I saw this set I knew it was perfect. I looked at the price tag: $220. But in big red numbers scrawled on the bag was this magical number: $60. That is $60 for the whole shebang- comforter, bumpers, sheets, skirt.

Needless to say, I bought it.
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What A Day

2010-07-30T17:22:00.000-07:00

(Carter enjoying the train ride.)

Yesterday was Carter's 2nd birthday! What a day we had!

First, we picked up Grammy and met Grandma Joyce, Grandpa Dave, Uncle Darin and cousin Ian at the Topeka zoo. It was about a thousand degrees outside and we decided that zoo trips in July are a bad idea. After we all made it through the zoo alive, we rode the little train around Gage park. Carter loved it!

We then went for lunch (which was amazing!) and then to the mall for some cooling off and some shopping. After the mall, we met Pa, Uncle Craig, Aunt Mary and cousin Cole at Applebees for supper. (Applebees is Carter's favorite restaurant- or so he says.)

We topped the evening off with ice cream from DQ and some relaxing at home. It was a great day and I can't believe my baby boy is 2 years old!

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Getting Back (2)

2010-07-27T06:53:00.000-07:00

We celebrated the beginning of Carter's birthday week (that's right, we like to spread it out) on Saturday evening. It was Carter's 2nd Birthday bash at Buzzards. It was a ton of fun and sooo nice to have it over with. Now, we just have Thursday to make it through- that is his actual birthday.

About 2 seconds after Carter's party I started feeling terrible. Seriously. I thought I had escaped the cold that has ravaged everyone around me. It had been well over a week since everyone else came down with it, so I should be safe, right? Apparently not.

As for other things going on- we had someone come and look at our house. It was the same old song and dance- great home, clean, nice yard BUT.... Ugh. The dreaded but.

Darek and I have been talking about it pretty much nightly. We have decided that we aren't paying out payment this month. Gasp! I feel so naughty! But happy. There might be an end in sight. I am going to go (hopefully) Friday and get new tires. Slowly, my list of worries is shrinking.

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Getting Back (1)

2010-07-22T08:27:00.000-07:00

Somewhere along the way we got lost. I don't really know how else to explain it. First came the house. Then the car, a child, and a number of other purchases. A business. Another child on the way. And with each thing we got a little further off the path.

I have decided to use this blog as more of a diary for now- I need a way to get it all out. And heck, its my blog so really I can do whatever I want! I'm going to be doing however many of these posts I feel I need to, and maybe just a random regular one here and there when I dont feel like talking (er, blogging).

I guess I should clarify a thing or two first. What I mean by 'we got lost' is that financially we got lost. We lost track of goals and savings and focused on the 'now'. That is our stack of bills in the picture. Actually, its been worse so thats not a bad shot. But you can see how we are now in over our heads. Who needs all the stuff that we have? I know we thought we needed it at one point, but at what expense? I know that stressing out every single day thinking about it is NOT worth a new(er) car, a flat screen tv or some other unnecessary item.

We are trying to sell our house. It's not going so hot, to be quite honest. I think our realtor is unmotivated by the lack of commission she will get when (if) she sold it. We have had 2 open houses and a handful of people come look. The kitchen is too small, its on a gravel road, blah blah blah. Basically, things we cannot change. So what now? We have a baby coming in November, I worry EVERY single day about blowing out a tire on my car as I am driving because my tires are so bad, oh, and that stack of bills up top to pay. Darek and I both need our eyes checked and new contacts (who said those 30 day contacts can't last you a year- pshaw), Carter needs fall clothes, and did I mention a baby will be here in November??

So what is one to do? We have been thinking about just walking away. We have a place to stay (we are going to stay at my parents' house). And, really, if we are together as a family isnt that all that matters? We will be fed and have a roof over our heads and we will be together. Keeping our credit score up has nothing over on all that. Its just a number (a somewhat important one, but who's keeping track?).

One minute I am SURE of what we should do. Walk away. Let the bank take the house back. Just shrug when people say they saw our name in the paper under the foreclosure section. The next minute I am so scared and embarrassed. What will people think? And I dont mean that in a personal way- I mean for our business. Will people think we can't handle it? Will they not come in and eat pizza?!?! I know nothing about the foreclosure process except for what google has told me. And it has scared me to death. And the next minute I am looking at Carter thinking that as long as he is happy that's all that matters. He doesnt know what his mom and dad's credit score is nor does he care. This new baby won't care either, especially if she has clothes to wear home and a carseat. And then scared again.

The Graves'

I haven't been busy at all...

Happy Halloween!

What's up?

Sometimes...

This is how I feel today

Did I sign up for this??

*sigh*

Selfish

I am TIRED...

Where has time gone?

Ears

Regularity

Let me introduce you...

Once in a lifetime kinda thing

My baby boy turned 3

A fun time was had by all....

Delusional?

On parenting

Productive day

Self Discovery is a Funny Thing

Cuties

Happiness is...

Summer Days

My life as Em.

What I've been doing...

Good Times

The best 57lbs I can carry...

That's it!

An Easter to Remember

Happy Easter!!

Nap time

My "Ah-Ha!" moment

5K on a hot, windy day....

Just one of those days....

Bring it on, baby!

Busy weekend!

I KILLED IT! (Not literally)

Just Another Manic Monday (er, well, yesterday was.)

Good Day

Back At It

What I've been up to

On My Own

My treadmill for today:

Repeat of Week 5 Day 2

Week 5 day 2 = FAIL :(

Week 5 day 1

Last day of week 4!

Week 4, Day 2

So, I lied.

Same old, same old.

Week 3...continued.

Week 3- whatever # I am on....

Week 3

Week 2/Day 6

Week 2- Day 5

Week 2

Day 3 (repeated....)

Day 3

Day 2. Yuck.

Day One

Couch to 5k

*Sigh*

Snowbird

I'm bringing big hair back, baby!

I've been busy...

WARNING- There is an EXTREMELY cute picture below...

Love

Handmade = the best

INTRODUCING......

My Dear Handsome Son

Say "Cheeseburger"!

Almost there

Ahhh, Fall- I heart you.

20 days

Busy, busy, busy

FINALLY!

FINALLY!

Who knew?

Little bits

sigh

Sigh