Seriously?

Where am I at?

2011-08-23T06:36:00.000-05:00

My body has been neglected. A lot like many things in my life. However, I am hoping that by getting my weight/health in order, it will begin piling all of the other areas of my life back in to place. My energy level has been low, my self esteem is low. My drive to do anything has been quite low. Unless that anything is laying around. I am all about laying around. So. what is next?? Not quite sure, but I have declared I will lose 50 lbs by Spring Break. That is 7 months from now, if that is not a goal I can accomplish then I will reevaluate my future as the weeks go by. Here I am!! The absolute largest I have ever been! Here is to progress……..

Friend Makin Monday: The Last Thing

2011-08-22T09:33:00.001-05:00

Be sure and stop by Kenlie's blog, All The Weigh, for more

Friend Makin Monday and make some new friends.

1) What is the title of the last book you read?

Summer Sisters by: Judy Blume

2) What is the last movie you saw in a theater?

The Help. And I loved it! Such a fun way to tell a moving story.

3) Briefly describe the last person you saw today.

My husband. He came back home to shower after the gym. YAY him!

4) Which store did you most recently shop in?

Wal-Mart. My dad needed a tire replaced so I spent 2 hours with him waiting for his car to be ready. Of course had they told us it would take that long we would have killed time elsewhere.

5) Who’s the last person you spoke to over the phone?

My Daddy. Yesterday afternoon.

6) Where’s the last place you vacationed?

Gulf Shores, Alabama. A last minute beach trip with friends before school started.

7) When was the last time you kissed someone of the opposite sex?

This morning. My husband before he left for work.

8) What’s the last thing that made you laugh?

My oldest daughter is writing her first speech for speech class. The “legend” she is telling about her daddy cracks me up every time.

9) What’s the latest app that you downloaded on your phone?

hmmm….don’t think I have downloaded any for a while.

10) What’s the last kind thing you did for someone?

Saturday evening I took out 3 teen girls to practice some golf and get ready to go out for golf team. I enjoyed it quite a bit and did lots of laughing with them!

Life’s about change, nothing ever stays the same

2011-08-19T06:06:00.008-05:00

Wednesday, August 10, 2011 was the first day of school for my girls.

Sarah Jane is now a Freshman in High School. (left)

Emily is a Junior in High School. (right)

This is the first year Emily was able to drive them on the first day of school. At first I was heartbroken that I was going to miss the yearly milestone of driving them to school and taking pictures as the walked into the school and in their new classrooms. Then as the day drew closer I realized this was exactly what we want for our daughters. To grow, progress and change. As a result, we must grow, progress and change with them. It became a new scrapbook layout in my head. And it is nice to have peace with this new normal.

Having the children grow up is not always easy on the Momma, but, this is how it is supposed to be. Life changes, we must change with it.

And just for fun, First day of school 2001.

Ten years ago. I have this exact picture for every first day of elementary.

Again Sarah Jane on left, first day of K-4.

Emily on right, first day of 1st grade.

Be sure to go visit Kelly's Korner to see more back to school fun ideas on Show us your life Friday.

Also linking this week to JDaniel4's mom!

Why….

2011-08-08T23:09:00.001-05:00

So this is a photo with a lot of imperfections....be kind world!!

do I feel that things need to be perfect to write a blog post.
is it I care about who is reading, but when I look back through my blog I love my writing
do I only write when I am in a positive place
do people have to be ______, ___________, and __________. fake, mean, and hurtful.
must life be so ever changing. It wouldn't be all bad to have some monotony.

What are the chances this is the beginning of a comeback??? We will see...tomorrow!!

So that is a photo with a lot of imperfections....be kind world!!

Summer fun

2010-10-04T00:01:00.003-05:00

New Dress...check

Hair Curled...check

Camera in hand...check

What are you waiting for round 'em up and head 'em out. It's time for Justin Beiber Fun afternoon on Lake DeGrey

All finished at the lake. Let's pack it in, and head for home.

What is a post without pictures?? We had a super fun summer, it was gone too fast and now we have been swept into the daily activities that the school year brings.

Can't wait to share more as we get time!!

July 27-2010

2010-07-27T23:26:00.002-05:00

There have been so many events happening in the last few months. I am thinking of changing the title of my blog to Parenting teenagers: it sucks. Then again, keeping it real fits too............

Recently I have been making lists of all the goings on with the girls. I want to remember it all, the good, the bad, and the ugly. There has been too much ugly lately. The girls start school in just 2 weeks, then my time will become more of my own. Which will make my time more free for important stuff like blogging. :)

Until then, I miss my reader(s) pretty sure that is singular, not plural.

ahhh….

2010-05-17T23:01:00.001-05:00

This blog break has been so refreshing for me.

Look for me to be back at it soon.

Looking forward to summer and all the great things that go with its freedom!

He sad. She Said

2010-01-28T07:40:00.000-06:00

This is a message I have exchanged with my hubby tonight. He has pissed me off. I think this conversation we have over email exchange will relate.

OK-deep breath!

Momma is better.

Was never really pissed.

Just standing on that principal for the moment.

Feel free to go back to being an ass....

Wait? What?....you didn't notice you were being an ass?

Alright...everything is definitely back to normal.

I love you...bring me lots o' money (he is playing poker with his buddies)

Where I would rather be.

2010-01-21T06:45:00.000-06:00

But then again.

Wouldn’t we all?

Shingles

2010-01-20T06:35:00.000-06:00

Y’all my baby girl has shingles.

No silly-not that kind!

Baby girl has it on her arm and she isn’t complaining much. She tends to have eczema during the winter months but I knew when the tell-tell blisters appeared this wasn’t any eczema I have ever seen. This was one of those days where my mommy instincts paid off. Taking her to the doctor, because the earlier the treatment the better off you are.

How random is that?

I had shingles a couple of years ago and have NEVER been in so much pain.
Seriously, miserable. Probably because it was at my waistline and anything touching it was excruciating.

For the next few days I guess this is where I will be…right on the front lines!

Are you a fan?

2010-01-19T07:27:00.000-06:00

Could be that I spend entirely too much time on facebook.

Why? you ask…

While doing my grocery shopping I became irritated by the people that leave their buggy in the aisle.

That doesn’t quite explain it.

What does explain it is the thought that ran through my head was
Lynn became a fan of people who don’t leave their buggy in the middle of the aisle and walk away.

Which lead me to think of everything in the store in terms of:

Lynn became a fan of….

leaving your spouse at home when shopping because the price of Doritos doesn’t require the analysis of both of you
picking up the things that fall off of the shelf when you bump into them so they aren’t left laying in the middle of the store
not blocking an entire aisle while stopping to visit with your friends
bread that is soft when you squeeze it
buggies that don’t squeak
looking at magazine in line and putting them back
not having to lift the big things out of the buggy to check them
putting the buggy away in the parking lot so it doesn’t hit a car

And that is just a few of the things I am fan of….

Am I the only one that does this? Or are you a fan of things too?

Never fear

2010-01-18T08:10:00.000-06:00

The runny eye resolved itself and I was able to perform my concession stand duties…I just knew you people were at home biting your fingernails sitting by the computer waiting for word! :)

Immediately following my 1.5 hours in the concession stand I was able to watch my girls cheer in 3 basketball games. Don’t ask me how we did. I have no idea. And honestly, I don’t even care. I show up for the cheering.

Now, at the appropriate times I clap. I look interested. Only to the untrained eye do I look as I really feel.

Then a relaxing Sunday.

A GREAT weekend.

{ICK}

2010-01-16T07:26:00.000-06:00

As in yuck!

This morning I am scheduled to work a session in the concession stand. Sounds fun, right? I am good with that. Really…I don’t mind. These are my people. Most of my friends these days are the mothers of my kids friends and events like these are when we spend time together.

Sounds lame now that I am typing it, unfortunately it is true.

The ick comes into play because I have a nasty runny eye. Not sure what is going on with it. It hurts like the dickens.
If you pop over to the concession stand, hopefully you will see my hubby.

If not, you will recognize me. I will be the one with the runny eye!

{TOM}

2010-01-15T07:06:00.000-06:00

No, not the Tom I dated in HS. Or maybe his name was Tim. I digress.

But TOM x 2.

He is not a good friend. And the worst part is…in 2003 I had a full hysterectomy so TOM hasn’t been welcome in this house until recently.

And now he ruins not just one week a month.

But two.

(cue the violins)

Both of my daughters now have regular ~~moody~~ monthly visits.

And they haven’t yet synchronized. Hard to say if synchronization would be better at this point. At least at all times I can get one of them to see reason.

But these meltdowns over nothing….

Serenity now!

Hi, my name is Lynn

2010-01-14T06:51:00.000-06:00

Seriously, I feel I should introduce myself. Except if you are here you might already know me. Or you might not. You might be here by accident, and if that is the case you should RUN cause I am a train wreck. At least that is how I feel. A few months ago I touched on this subject. Now I see no need to dwell on the subject!

Here we are in the new year. It is only the 13th so perhaps I should Happy New Year. Hopefully you are still on your diet/exercise plan. Or sticking with whatever goals/resolutions you have for the coming year. I won’t bore you with mine.

Tomorrow I will be back. And have something to say! Cause tomorrow I plan to get out of the house for more that 15 minutes.

Thoughts to ponder

2009-12-03T07:05:00.000-06:00

Christmas 2008

I don’t love Christmas.

YEP

I said it!

I don’t love Christmas.

I love baby Jesus.

And the idea of CHRISTmas. But the commercial aspects of Christmas disgust me.

We have never put up more than one tree. And never before the 10th or so of the month.

To go into debt buying gifts that you feel obligated to buy seems wrong.

I love giving gifts.

But, I like doing it throughout the year. I don’t limit it to Christmas. There is nothing like finding just the right thing for someone that you love.

Giving someone a list of things to “get” me makes me crazy!! If you can’t figure out what to get me, save your money. We obviously aren’t close enough to buy gifts for one another.

Over the coming weeks this will come up again on this blog. This is my blog and my feeling.

Dr. Google, please find your way out of my computer. You do not ease my mind you make me super nervous!

2009-12-02T07:15:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to give a quick update on my mammogram appointment.

Since it was my first ever I am going to record all the details!

After arriving and filling out the required paperwork I sat in the waiting room full of worried looking men. I asked my husband to let me go by myself. He is a busy guy and not soothing, I spend my time worrying about making him happy when he is around and I didn’t want that stress today.

The nurse finally called my name after a 15 minute wait. She escorted me to another holding cell where I was given a cape to change into. Yes, I said a cape…..very strange. After another wait the radiology tech freed me from the holding cell.

Honestly, the mammogram was not painful. It wasn’t fun, but it was not all that bad. So, many different angles. Now I am a squished booby girl! Then I was taken back to the holding cell.

Still in the fabulous green cape.

After about 20 minutes the ultrasound tech came to escort me to the the ultrasound room. Pokes around on my left breast, finding nothing to take pictures of she consults her paperwork and the mammogram pictures and declares my left breast perfect!

YAY

Holdup!!!!!!

Don’t get too excited.

Lets take a closer look at the right breast. They found something suspicious!! WTH?

No way, it’s fine.

So I stay in the boob sagging position with the cold jelly smeared on them. She finishes up and runs to show them to the doctor. While sitting there waiting I am of course going through worst case scenarios because that is the way I roll.

Upon returning to the room she says that this “mass” looks like a benign “mass” and they want to take another picture with mammogram. Sure, my right boob hasn’t been squished enough. Whatever, this could save my life. RIGHT??

After this is finished the doctor comes in and says he wants to do these tests again in 6 months to see if there are any you to make me more paranoid I am paranoid enough on my own! Thanks for that!changes. The “mass” is relatively small.

This is the part where Dr Google is not my friend. No one makes big long posts about how it was nothing, and I am fine.

Don’t leave me messages telling me how paranoid I should be because your aunt, cousin, sister, mother, grandmother, boyfriends 2 wife's sister-in-law waited and was dead within 3 months.

I don’t need you to make me more paranoid. I am paranoid enough on my own! Thanks for that!!

Feeling strange

2009-12-01T07:15:00.000-06:00

My left breast that is….

My first ever mammogram is scheduled for today at 12:10. Please keep me in your thoughts.

About 2 weeks ago I found a *mass in my left breast. After being felt up by my family doctor a mammogram was scheduled. For my own peace of mind I am telling myself that it is nothing. After all, if I don’t make it into a big deal then it will not be a big deal…right??

*mass-what the doctor called this abnormality

A meme

2009-11-30T18:04:00.001-06:00

borrowed from facebook. I am so glad that today is the end of a month of posting. But I am so glad that I pushed through and stuck to it!

Fifty Questions You've (Maybe) Never Been Asked...Until Now.
Once you've been tagged, you have answer this and tag 10-15 people, including the person who tagged you.
1. What color is your toothbrush?
green
2. Name one person who made you smile today:
Sarah
3. What were you doing at 8 am this morning:
making calls
4. What were you doing 45 minutes ago?
cleaning out the pool
5. What is your favorite candy bar?
snickers
6. Have you ever been to a strip club?
hmmm...no
7. What is the last thing you said aloud?
lucky me
8. What is your favorite ice cream flavor?
I am not big on ice cream, chocolate
9. What was the last thing you had to drink?
water
10. Do you like your wallet?
not particularly
11. What was the last thing you ate?
prime rib, corn, baked potato
12. Have you bought any new clothing items this week?
2 pairs of shoes today
13. The last sporting event you watched?
basketball cheer competition
14. What is your favorite flavor of popcorn?
butter, but only at the movie theatre
15. Who was the last person you sent a text to?
Tracy
16. Ever go camping?
Not in a long time
17. Do you take vitamins daily?
no, but maybe I should
18. Do you go to church every Sunday?
yes
19. Do you have a tan?
not yet :)
20. Do you prefer Chinese food over pizza?
no
21. Do you drink your soda with a straw?
no
22. What did your last text message say?
get on FB now
23. What are you doing tomorrow?
more of the same things that I did today
24. Just a break to clear your mind...
Thanks.
25. Look to your left, what do you see?
a window
26. What color is your watch?
silver and gold
27. What do you think of when you hear Australia?
Nicole Kidman
28. What is your birthstone?
ruy
29. Do you go in at a fast food place or just hit the drive thru?
Drive-thru
30. What is your favorite number?
4
31. Who's the last person you talked to on the phone?
Lori
32. Any plans today?
It is night time. I am going to bed.
33. How many states have you lived in?
just one
34. Biggest annoyance right now?
Homework
35. Last song listened to?
IDK
36. Can you say the alphabet backwards?
yes
37. Do you have a maid service clean your hous
yep!
38. Favorite pair of shoes you wear all the time?
houseshoes
39. Are you jealous of anyone?
not really
40. Is anyone jealous of you?
I seriously doubt it.
41. Do you love anyone?
Yes, lots of people.
42. Do any of your friends have children?
Yes, most of them have kids
43. What do you usually do during the day?
all the stuff that no one else will to do around the house
44. Do you hate anyone that you know right now?
no
45. Do you use the word 'hello' daily?
Yes
46. What color is your car?
white
47. Do you like cats?
no
48. Are you thinking about someone right now?
not anyone in particular
49. Have you ever been to Six Flags?
Yes, lots of times.
50. How did you get your worst scar?
I am sure it involved a clumsy me accident.

Figuring Things Out

2009-11-29T07:15:00.000-06:00

Who determines your self worth?

Is it you? Is it your husband? Your kids? Maybe it is your family? Is it your friends?

Could be that it is more materialistic for you.

What you drive.

What designer you wear.

Which designer bag you carry.

How big your house is.

Where your next vacation will be.

But honestly, when you step back how important are those things?

I am going to spend some time reflecting on why things that really don’t matter take on such importance. This is my time. My choices.

Lets live it!!

Tally-ho!!!

2009-11-28T07:15:00.000-06:00

It’s travel day!

Woohooo

If you pull up next to this car headed south and there is a lady with a crazed look doing the jello-neck head bob in the passenger seat-just know that is me. And I have been at my in-laws house for a few days and I earned every bit of that particular look on my face!

At that point don’t approach the crazy lady. The best you can do is step aside.

Save yourself.

Black what??

2009-11-27T06:41:00.000-06:00

Its Black Friday….

It all begins on Thanksgiving day when we spend hours pouring over the ads from the paper. Ads are then passed to the children to see if there are any items they cannot live without. Lists are made in order of priority from store to store. Then the list of stores to visit is reprioritized in order of proximity to the #1 store.

This is a science people! A science!

As I alluded in an earlier post I am uncertain whether or not I will be in the throng of shoppers headed into Target at the butt crack of dawn with thousands of my closest friends.

Because really what do I need from ~~Target~~ any store that can only be procured by standing in line outside of the freezing Kansas City store to buy??

The answer to that my friends is NOTHING!

But, I might do it anyway.

Just for fun. Because I am strange like that.

My dear sweet MIL usually drops myself and my SIL off at the door a couple a minutes after the store opens. We then disperse in the store to grab the items we saw in the store ad that we absolutely must have!

Most black Fridays include a lunch out and braving the mall. All in all a very good girls day. Now the question is to take my girls or not.

Really it is a no-brainer.

Don’t know why I am making it so hard!!!!!

And as a treat for my loyal followers. A giveaway. Not certain yet what I am going to give away. But in honor of my 100th post a giveaway seems in order. Just know it will be something great. I would never giveaway something I didn't want to own!!

Thankfulness day #4

2009-11-26T06:55:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

A bullet point list of what I am thankful for:

A husband who works hard to make sure us girls have the things we need and want
2 happy healthy daughters that strive to be the best person they can
A loving and thoughtful extended family that take the time to make sure they know how much they care for us
My constant companion Ollie. He is a chocolate lab and will do anything I ask.
All my bloggy peeps (thanks for being there for me)

And on the shallow side:

snuggly PJ pants
freshly washed sheets
high speed internet
seat heater in my car
my iphone
my cleaning lady
jets in my bathtub
cable TV and DVR

These lists could go on forever! But I will keep it short so we can all get away to spend time with our families.

Thankfulness day #3

2009-11-25T06:45:00.000-06:00

Wordless Wednesday

Your welcome

Thanksgiving day #2

2009-11-24T06:30:00.001-06:00

Let me tell you about my turkey cooking. The first (and only) Thanksgiving I hosted when my turkey caught on fire!

What you need to hear the story???

A chef I am not.

So I ordered a fried turkey ahead of time. My husband picked it up Thanksgiving morning. He was given the heating instructions . When it was almost time to eat I pulled it out of the refrigerator to get ready to heat. It came in a brown paper sack and I thought, well maybe that is a special way you heat a fried turkey.

Really, I thought that!

So I popped it right into the oven and went about finishing the rest of the dinner (which we eat at lunchtime). About 12 minutes later I could smell something and opened the oven to check it almost as an after thought. Sure enough there was a hole with crispy edges and flames shooting out of the bag.

Fire is one sure way to get everyone running. The minute I pull that paper bag out of the oven they are alternately exclaiming over the flames and laughing so hard they are crying.

Myself, all tears. Boy did I feel like a moron. All that prep for the side dishes. I made 2 pies, the first time I had ever baked a pie.

And then it all went ~~down~~ up in flames!

And with my in-laws there. Nothing makes your mistakes seem bigger than when your mother-in-law witnesses them!

Thankfulness day #1

2009-11-23T12:54:00.001-06:00

1. Turkey or Ham? turkey
2. Favorite side dish? green bean bundles
3. Favorite dessert? hands down pecan pie. 4. Black Friday: Are you going or not? have decided yet. My girls want to go with, and that defeats the purpose. Makes me not wanna go.
5. If so, what's on the top of your list? hubby
6. Going out of town or staying close to home? out of town
7. Hosting or helping? hosting
8. Name one family tradition at Thanksgiving.
traveling 9. What do you do after dinner? go see the lighting of the plaza lights in Kansas City
10. What are you most thankful for this year? my family.

Make sure you go visit Amber at Friend Makin Monday!

I am a quitter

2009-11-22T21:14:00.001-06:00

For some reason all this forced blogging has me wanting to hang up my keyboard.

What do I have to say?

Very little!

I feel that my life is dullsville right now.

I am a quitter. Many things I start and never finish, pick back up, look twice at. I really am trying to not let this be one of those things.

Are you asleep yet?

Saturday Randomness

2009-11-21T14:09:00.001-06:00

In Arkansas it is still modern gun deer season. My hubby is in the woods. Daughter number one went to a high school basketball game last night and New Moon today. Daughter number two stayed with a friend last night and today is at a college football game. That leaves me and the puppy here alone!

Last night I had a relaxing evening until I heard voices outside. Why do I let that freak me out? Turns out it was just a group of teenage boys from down the street skateboarding in our driveway. The boys are used to a gaggle of girls being here on the weekends.

I am still here alone this afternoon. Ran out to Wal-Mart. Have been doing laundry. What I should really be doing is cleaning my nasty garage while the weather outside is still mild. For some reason I just can’t get into that.

Hope you are having a relaxing weekend.

dreams

2009-11-20T20:53:00.001-06:00

How many times do we see something we want and pass it by? Why do we do this? Is it because we don’t want to spend the money? Remember the commercial that says your worth it?

You are worth it.

Embrace yourself.

Spend an hour one day and follow your heart. It will do your soul good too!

After all you are worth it!

Super Stretch Jeans

2009-11-19T14:08:00.001-06:00

And by that I do mean super stretch jeans. They are a thing of wonder.

And really, they did burst onto the scene at just the right time.

20 years ago I would not have appreciated them. I might have even been angry at the way they stretched out before the day ended.

But now….I worship the rack these treasures were pulled from. The dressing room I tried them on in, a thing of beauty. The mirror that showed my backside looking a bit smaller than I really am, it is queen of all the mirrors in the land.

These jeans could stand a few improvements Like in the knee area and the thighs, mine would be just fine in old fashioned fabric.

But they still aren’t the soft, warm, and cozy pj pants that I love to slip into at the end of the day. May the fashion industry strive towards comfort for all!!

Clean or Cluttered?

2009-11-18T14:34:00.001-06:00

Since I am a stay-at-home mom part of my job is keeping the house clean. I am rotten. This means writing a check for my cleaning lady twice a month. Of course I do have a husband+two kids+an indoor dog. All of those things mean that I must do daily maintenance. My husband is fairly easygoing and takes things in stride. I have learned in the years we have been married that he HATES clutter. He can’t think when the house is a mess.

Not because he gets mad if the house is cluttered, but out of respect for his feelings in the afternoon before he gets home we spend 10-15 minutes cleaning up.

What that usually consists of is:

clearing the kitchen counters (even if that means just putting the dirty dishes into the sink to get them off the counter)
making sure there are not blankets everywhere (we use lots of throws)
the backpacks and jackets are put away
dog toys put away
making sure lights and televisions we are not using are turned off (the girls and I are bad about that)

And the final step is spraying cleaner. He walks in the door smells the cleaner and even if the list didn't get done, he thinks I have done something. Most days he calls on his way home and gives what has become to be referred to as the 10 minute warning.

This may seem outdated, but as I said, it is out of respect for one another that I do this.

Blessings

2009-11-17T06:23:00.000-06:00

Has anyone made a blessing ring? I am talking about the kind you use an O ring, ribbon as streamers, then punch a hole into the corner of your greeting cards to hang them? Some people use them in their nursery for all the baby cards. I was thinking it would be good for my husbands grandmother who moved into a nursing home this year. Just thought there might be someone out there with some tips and unique ideas. Going to head to Hobby Lobby for some supplies today.

Later this week I will update with pictures of our playroom. The girls and I are very happy with how it turned out!

R-E-B-O-U-N-D

2009-11-16T21:59:00.001-06:00

That was the battle cry. Like most other sports, I go to see my kids. My knowledge of what is actually going on is very slim. We did win so that rebound thing must have worked out ok!

Oh, you did want to see pictures from our 4 basketball games?

I aim to please.

Then Saturday night was cotillion. And yes, it was cold. To cold for a sleeves dress. As you can tell from that smile and pose she did not care. Because its not about comfort it is about fashion. (not a trait that I have)

A girls weekend

2009-11-15T22:23:00.001-06:00

Opening weekend of modern gun season was this weekend. My husband spend his weekends doing whatever it is men do while off in the woods doing their own thing. This picture was taken at deer camp a few weeks ago while he had the girls down for a weekend.

While our Daddy has been away we have watched movies, watched Say yes to the dress, watched cheerleading shows. We also baked chocolate chip cookies. All fun things to do on a weekend while I have had a little break from daddy. Hopefully, he will return and see how much we miss him. We are able to go on, business as usual. It is just more fun with Daddy here with us!

I've Come To Realize

2009-11-14T20:58:00.001-06:00

Enjoy this little meme. I don’t do them very often, thought you might like learning a few things about me. Let me know if you use it too so I can learn about you too!

1. I've come to realize that my chest-size...is one of the first places I gain and lose weight. Right now, it is wayyy to large

2. I've come to realize that my job...is different than most people think. Motherhood is so difficult, and not nearly as rewarding as some might say. Some days it just plain sucks.

3. I've come to realize that when I'm driving...multitasking is bad.
4. I've come to realize that I need...to stand up for myself.

5. I've come to realize that I have lost...well, not weight.

6. I've come to realize that I hate it when...people are mean.
7. I've come to realize that if I'm drunk...I am not in control.
8. I've come to realize that money...is necessary.
9. I've come to realize that certain people…are incapable of change. And I am okay with that. Be yourself, the people who love you will appreciate you. And do you really care about the others.
10. I've come to realize that I'll always...put other peoples needs ahead of my own.
11. I've come to realize that my sibling(s)...are (1) crazy as a loon. And (2) gone too soon.
12. I've come to realize that my mom...didn’t try hard enough.
13. I've come to realize that my cell phone...is not always necessary.
14. I've come to realize that when I woke up this morning...getting out of bed as soon as the alarm goes off makes the morning go smoother.

15. I've come to realize that last night before I went to sleep...I had an enjoyable day.
16. I've come to realize that right now I am thinking...rated R movies aren’t what they used to be.
17. I've come to realize that my dad...gave up a lot to help me out.
18. I've come to realize that when I get on Facebook...I waste SO much time.
19. I've come to realize that today…was busier than I like to be. But it was good for me.
20. I've come to realize that tonight...I am a good kind of tired.
21. I've come to realize that tomorrow...is a brand new day and a brand new start.
22. I've come to realize that I really want to...work harder on my social anxiety.
23. I've come to realize that the person who is most likely to repost this…likes doing things like this and reading other responses just like me.
24. I've come to realize that life...is a gift. Unwrap it slowly or you will forget to see all of the value.
25. I've come to realize that this weekend...is time to spend with friends and relax.
26. I've come to realize that marriage...is hard. See #9. That realization has enhanced my marriage.
27. I've come to realize that my friends...are important to me
28. I've come to realize that this year…is not a closed book yet. Plenty more good things to come.
29. I've come to realize that my ex-friends...are ex-friends for a reason.
30. I've come to realize that maybe…I am stronger than I think.
31. I've come to realize that I love...my family and friends way more than I ever thought.
32. I've come to realize that I don't understand...people are all different.
33. I've come to realize my past...does not define my future.
34. I've come to realize that parties...are fine if I don’t have to take my checkbook.
35. I've come to realize that I'm totally terrified...of life. I need get over myself.
36. I've come to realize that my life...can be whatever I want it to be.

In case you were wondering…

2009-11-13T18:47:00.001-06:00

My life is so thrilling here I sit on Friday night with nothing to do but write this blog post. Of course this is going to be a big weekend.

Tomorrow we have:

4 basketball games

Neither of my girls play both of them cheer. Each of is cheering for a girls game and a boys game. My hubby is out of town. That means no tag team parenting. He is generally good about that kind of thing!

Cotillion

Shouldn’t be as much work for me as it is, but all that girl hair to get ready. And the fight over what she is going to wear! UGH

I think I am going to make brownies to cope! Proof that I eat my emotions.

What a pit

2009-11-12T13:11:00.001-06:00

This is my day today! Decided to share in depth my messy laundry room. I am thankful to have a laundry room. Just wish it would clean itself!

1. I hang clean clothes on the crank used to open and close the window. Real classy. I MUST fold and hang straight from the dryer. I refuse to iron anything.

2. Need I say more?

3. I do HATE laundry therefore it gets stacked up on me!

4. The laundry room sink is never used. This is pretty much a catch all area and folding space.

5. You hear people complain about how stinky front loaders are? There is a drain in here that gets clogged up. I had a repairman come out b/c mine wasn’t draining right and this drain was FULL. It had money, hair, pen caps, barrettes, earrings and lots of nasty water.

1. Sarah Jane’s list that stems from her lack of responsibility a few weeks ago.

2. We order 4 weeks at a time. This is our copy so the girls know when they need to carry a lunch. They fill out their own menu and usually pack their own lunch.

3. Crap that should be somewhere else. It is just piled into the basket. UGH I should be putting it away instead of blogging.

4. Socks. I HATE socks! They are a natural enemy of mine.

5. This basket belongs here. It has things that we usually can’t find.

Thought you might like to have a close up of this clip storage thingy. My sister in law wanted one when she was decorating her toddlers room to hang art work on. Rather than spending $35. each for them my husband made her 3. And I fell in love with it so he made me one too. It is really handy and in the picture above you can see more of it, this is a closer picture.

So Random

2009-11-11T11:30:00.002-06:00

I don’t think even I can keep up with my rambling thoughts.

Thanks to our veterans. Thanks for doing what so many won’t. You are special and we are thankful to be part of these United States!

I went to the supercenter this morning. You know the one.

They have now have a medical clinic up front.

So theoretically I could-

bank
get a mani/pedi
get a haircut
have my car worked on
eat at the golden arch’s
get a prescription filled
see the eye doctor
buy my new eyeglasses
get a hunting/fishing license

Can you stand it?? Makes me want to ditch the blue buggy and run to Target. Except I needed groceries. And we dont have a super T!

I think I only shaved one armpit yesterday. That or my hair is growing very quickly-lets hope not! (maybe its b/c I am team Jacob)

Took my oldest to the eye doctor yesterday (not at the supercenter) Her vision stinks. I actually feel bad for her. Then she wore the gereatric glasses out b/c she had her eyes dilated. Hilarious. I didn’t snap a pic. I think she could beat me down if she wanted to. And I wouldn’t want a pic of me floating around I HATE. Being a teenager is hard enough.

The youngest made a 95% last math test! WOOOHOO she needed it. At parent teacher conferences her math teacher told me she likes to pretend her calculator is a cell phone. She's 12! Too old to act like that! Her math grade first quarter was 63%. I am a stellar parent!

More tomorrow!

Off to find some Japanese food for lunch.

What?! Your having a party?!?!

2009-11-10T08:29:00.001-06:00

What can I bring?

My checkbook? What?

When did this become a party?

This is not a party, this is a store. You take your checkbook to the store.

I do understand that this is how some women make money to do whatever-that’s fine.

It is the the parties that I invited to by women that ONLY invite me to parties to buy something. Don’t call it a party. Call it something else. Invite me over for coffee. Invite me over to rake your leaves. It would irritate me less. But don’t invite me over every other month for a “party”!

Replacement

2009-11-09T18:33:00.001-06:00

We still haven't replaced the microwave/oven. In my mind it means I can cook a bit less. It has worked out well for me in every way but on the scale. We ate out Friday night, all three Saturday meals, Sunday at lunch and Sunday night to celebrate the big birthday! That was yummy Japanese food. Why is it sooo good. And what do they put into that ginger salad dressing, its like crack. I had to refrain from licking the bowl like it was a big ol’ bowl of brownie batter. :)

This having to blog everyday is not easy.

I am dull. A lot like the pain in my back.

Everyday I wait until late in the day to blog thinking that something exciting will happen and it doesn’t. So, here I am in all my dullness.

Until tomorrow!

Keeping up

2009-11-08T16:34:00.001-06:00

In an effort to stay up on current events I am ever expanding my reality TV palette. What we did before the DVR is baffling. Really, who watches live TV any more? Regular TV seems so bizarre these days. Don’t get me wrong, I still watch it. A few years ago I couldn’t wait for Sunday nights, these days Desperate Housewives has gotten stupid. It seems as if it isn’t even about the fabulous clothes and shoes anymore. I expect more.

I have turned to reality TV to ease my troubles. At least I expect it to be bizarre and stupid. I do not enjoy the singing or dancing shows. However, the rest of them. Love them.

The Bachelor/Bachelorette

The Amazing Race

Survivor

The Real Housewives of __________

Tori and Dean

Keeping up with the Kardashians

Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders: Making the team

18 Kids and counting

Survivorman

Kate plus 8

Bank of Mom and Dad

Supernanny

I could go on but you get the picture. Any that you love that I need to check out?

A thing of beauty

2009-11-07T21:47:00.001-06:00

This daughter of mine.

I made her.

Well, obviously I had some help.

She is one amazing girl.

Let me tell you some things about her-

She makes her bed daily (because she wants to) Clutter makes her nuts.
Her grades are outstanding.
She almost always does as she should.
Last week she ran an 8 minute mile (she wanted to prove to herself she could)

She is a parents dream. And without her, my life would be incomplete. I often say she is a great kid and it is amazing her daddy and I haven’t messed her up!

*She is a teenager. And MOODY. Sometimes that is really hurtful.

Things have gotten easier and more difficult in a whole other way over the last 15 years.

Lucky me that she is my firstborn, what a way to break me in!

The one about…

2009-11-06T21:30:00.001-06:00

Nothing!

I have nothing!

Nothing is going on….

Well, I have 4-14 year old girls here tonight. The hubby is at deer camp. Just me and the girls. Too bad they think I am quite uncool. They have no idea how cool I am. They even go so far as to tell me that the fact that I think I am cool makes me even less cool. Whatever!

I have been walking around all day saying, “Who gonna check me boo?”

Its beginning to drive me C-R-A-Z-Y. Of course its not too far of a trip.

Anybody wanna go with?

Who gonna check me boo???

What a mess!!

2009-11-06T07:03:00.000-06:00

This is the same sweet baby girl!

She is a mess!

Her father, thought it would be ok. She can be trusted. She knows how to take that belief he has in her and let it come back to bite him.

I suppose it was his mistake to make. He always seems to have more faith in her than I do. You can tell that those tires are not lining up the way they should.

She is gonna be fine, It was a quick $140. repair.

And we will let her live!!

How my kids are making me gray!

2009-11-05T09:48:00.000-06:00

About 2 weeks ago this very sweet angel

Decided to boil one of these….

In one of these….

And cook it here!

Which is built into this…

This has not turned out well for that sweet angel

After this she was grounded……

Then, she had another BIG ‘incident’!

Stay tuned I will tell you all about that tomorrow!

What do I do?

2009-11-04T14:56:00.001-06:00

This week I have gotten the urge to do a few things. I am thinking of using these curtains for my girls “playroom”. Of course they are teenagers now but we still call it a playroom. What we have hanging in there now is pastel chenille curtains that my mother-in-law made for us about 5 years ago. My hope is that as this room evolves they will want to spend more time hanging out up there with friends. You know unless they are boyfriends. We don’t allow that kind of friend up there!

I guess with these we would do some big thick gold picture frames on the walls. My girls LOVE pictures of themselves. Me personally…I would rather eat nails than to have to look at pictures of myself. Thankfully this is not a trait I have passed onto my girls.

Perhaps next week I will share the finished project here on the blog!

Oh la la…

2009-11-03T15:44:00.002-06:00

Or something along those lines. :)

Today I have been to Home Goods, Kohl’s, Target and got my hair highlighted and cut. My hair feels like it lost about 10 pounds. If only the rest of me felt that way. Halloween candy is the ENEMY. I would say it is from the devil but only God could make something that is so good.

Now I am heading off to pick up my girls from the bus. Study them, feed them and attempt to love them. Why do they have to make it so hard sometimes? Then I am supposed to go to a Ladies Night Out at the country club to watch a demonstration on how to decorate your mantle and table for the holidays. (big fun)

Tomorrow I will be more thrilling I promise! Or at least as thrilling as I can be.

Welcome to Monday

2009-11-02T12:13:00.001-06:00

This time change thing is not so good for me, this is what I refer to as the dark season. For several reasons. Obviously, the hour earlier it gets dark at night. I can’t see to drive after dark. (your thinking I can’t see very well after dark either) No, I really cannot drive after dark. I have a cornea disease and the glare makes it impossible for me to see well enough to drive. If you see me behind the wheel get out of the way!

Then there is the depression that comes with less sunlight. It affects more than I wish it did. Some days it is more than my Wellbutrin can take. This is also a time you are best getting out of the way!

Now begins the fight, to not let all this get me down. I have no choice but to fight and win this fight.

Now that this bit of housekeeping is out of the way, we are on to much happier topics in the future.

Things like:

Birthdays
Coffee
Sweeps week on TV
Blowing up appliances
Replacement appliaces
Thankfulness and Gratefulness

NaBloPoMo

2009-11-01T16:09:00.001-06:00

In case I haven’t bored or offended my readers enough, I have decided to participate in……

Hopefully this will give me some great new dimension. Get me out of my “safe” comfort zone of boring!

Make sure to stop in to visit me this month and check out the National Blog Posting Month website!

Smashing Pumpkins

2009-11-01T11:38:00.001-06:00

How beautiful is that….pumpkins all lined up. Straight from the pumpkin patch at the local WM! $3.88 really you can’t beat that for pumpkins that the neighborhood thugs are going to smash right in my own driveway. Never fear, my husband being the responsible adult he is, promptly scooped up the pieces and deposited them on the thugs front porch! (we have spoken with the parents in the past about the egging, and the tomatoes. But their kid would NEVER do that. I sat in the house and watched them do that) Oh, and my kids had no idea this is how it was handled. No reason to let them think that is ok! The following pictures detail the pumpkin carving event. What is that? Thats a teenager being nice to Daddy. Not an everyday event at our house. Do you have moody teenagers? Artist at work. She put a frowing face on hers because she IS a moody teenager! And I love her to pieces! Cause doesn’t everyone carve pumpkins with power tools? In case you can’t see her bow, there in the center is Hello Kitty. She always wanted to be a Jack O’ Lantern!

Halloween Past

2009-10-29T23:34:00.002-05:00

2006

Lynn and Shane

Every Halloween since we moved into our house we host a trick-or-treating hayride…..

It is so fun all the kids love this! And the parents (and grandparents, too)

The men getting the golf carts ready to follow the hayride!

2007

Emily and Sarah

2008

Emily as a princess

Sarah was a beautiful bumble bee!! Everyone getting loaded up and ready to hit the streets!!

I am all linked up this week....my good bloggy buddy Connie is doing a Halloween Fashion Friday. She is going to be doing Fashion Friday weekly, this week is spooky, go check it out!

And I also linked to Kelly's Show Us How You Live Halloween edition.

Make sure to visit both blogs and get some ideas!

Boys will be boys.....

2009-10-19T06:21:00.000-05:00

Or will some boys just be bullies??

It is no secret that I am the mother of girls.

Life with girls is different than with boys.

Although I guess I wouldn't know since I have only known life as a mother to girls.

Last weekend my older daughter had some friends, girls and guys, over hanging out. This has turned into a regular weekend occurrence at our house and I LOVE it! A couple of weeks ago when the kids were over one of the neighbor boys wandered over. He is in 7th grade (the age of my younger daughter) the other kids are in 9th. After about an hour the girls came to tell me there was a fight. Turns out an older boy accidentally tripped over younger boys feet and thought he had tripped him intentionally. The older boy punched the younger in the face a couple of times and had to be stopped. There is no difference in size or strength really. But the younger boy had no idea why the older was treating him this way.

The younger boys mom (neighbor) called and wanted the story. I told her what the girls had told me. I decided not to tell the older boys mother. Several of my friends think I should have called the mother so she knows what her son did. I think boys will be boys and life would be harder on the younger boy if someone told on the older boy. Older boy was wrong to do this and will not be welcome at my house again. I feel that he should have apologized to the younger boy and to us, his hosts.

His mother has always told me to let her know if anything happens she needs to know about. My husband is telling me to let it go. Don't talk to any other adults about it. Let them gossip between themselves if they want to, just don't get involved. Boys will be boys and they need to learn to work it out themselves.

All mothers say they want to know, I don't think they mean it. Nobody want to hear their kid is a bully.

What do you think? How should I have handled this situation?

The Best Day

2009-10-15T06:30:00.001-05:00

Who is that???

The one and only Taylor Swift!! And let me just tell you, she is adorable. Myself and another mom took 8 girls to the concert then spent the night at Embassy Suites so the girls could get ready together and then spend the evening breaking down the details of the concert. (important stuff)

If you are familiar with Taylor Swift you know she writes all of her own music. She put on a great show. She took the stage at 9:15 and didn’t finish until 11:15. Between songs she did lots of explaining about what each song meant to her. My absolute favorite explaination was when she was saying that if guys didn’t want her to write bad things about them then they shouldn’t do bad things. AMEN sister.

The other thing she said that my group of 14 year old girls needed to hear was, the bad guys don’t start out looking like bad guys. You can’t just spot them in a crowd in a black cape.

Are you my classmate?

2009-10-13T06:30:00.001-05:00

How do you know?

In this new age of social networking we are able to connect much more easily than in the past.

My observation is as follows:

92% of the time it is a positive thing

5% of the time it is not

3% of the time it is uncertain.

Blogging is such a great outlet.

The reading and writing of blogs has lead to a great big world of friendships and experiences I might have otherwise missed.

And now for the phony.

We went to high school with Breanna*. Recently Breanna* showed up on facebook masquerading as Parker*. However Parker* aka Breanna* put her email address on her info page. Guess she thought we all got off the boat last night. After some investigation she was emailed straight up and asked, “Are you really Breanna?” She had the nerve to respond with “Darn it, I am supposed to be hiding from an ex.” That's it….no other explanation.

My girlfriends from high school who I have reconnected with on facebook and myself have decided you must really be missing something in your mind to think this is acceptable.

How do you handle a person like this.

To us it seems she just wanted to join facebook see how our life has turned out without letting us in. And I was angry. But mostly, I pity her. I for one would have been happy to see what she was doing. We have been out of high school for 18 years. Most of us left those high school ways behind. I guess not ALL of us.

*not her actual name or alias

I saw, I clicked, I kept!

2009-10-12T05:58:00.000-05:00

Miracle of miracles.

I do my shopping clothing online.

I am 5'0".

And not a size 2.

Or any size in the single digits.

Going into a store,

finding clothes that are petite and not polyester is rare.

Over the last couple of years I have done (in my opinion) a good job of knowing what is flattering on my body.

Today was a good day. Not only did I try on 7 pieces that I had received in the mail this week.

I liked them ALL.

Lemmejustellya-this is rare for me.

Almost never happens.

Sometimes I will buy 7 pieces and return them all.

I even bought a pair of adorable little flats that I really like and will keep.

That equals a couple of entire outfits.

After all it is fall, must have cute clothing options!

Summary Saturday

2009-10-10T17:36:00.002-05:00

Goodness I have been so neglectful of my blog. I truly enjoy blogging. I enjoy reading about what is going on with all of you. It has taken me a couple of weeks to get caught up on all that I missed over the summer..

Somehow we had a busy summer full of a bunch of nothing. My kids are no longer involved in extracurricular activities other than church or school activities. That is a blessing. It is like recieving the gift of time. I do miss the HOURS spent each week in transit with the girls, those days of taking that time to catch up on their life is gone.

This is leading me to need to live a more purposeful life. My oldest daughter is now one month away from being 15. Every day I am reminded that my time to spend passing on everything I need her to know before sending her to college is getting smaller. Am I teaching her what she needs to know? Does she know how much we love her and how blessed we are to be her parents. She is a teenager, I have no idea how much of what I say gets to her heart. Hopefully, more of the good than the negative.

Any suggestions on what you wish your parents had told you? Taught you? Given you? Shown you?

Hitting the Red Carpet

2009-09-07T21:20:00.001-05:00

Sarah Jane turned 12 last week. (sigh) She is just maturing into the sweetest little lady! A couple of weeks ago she decided to have a fashion show birthday party. Most of the party elements were thought up by her….I bought some crushed red velvet fabric for $3. yd. from WalMart to be the runway. I had originally thought that I would put it next to the pool and that would make for great pictures. Sarah had a different idea, she put it down the steps from the front door. It actually turned out better this way. Several of the neighbors came over to watch the fashion show. We planned on having E be our MC for the event but at the last minute we just played music and let the girls giggle their way down.

Sarah and Kaylee.

(her birthday is the day before Sarah’s)

The Queen of the Show

Sarah and her beautiful friends.

(doesn’t that look like trouble??)

Her birthday cake from Kroger!

School Days

2009-08-25T23:51:00.001-05:00

You know there are several different kinds of mothers.

Mothers who start counting down to the first day of school the day school gets out for the summer.
Mothers who get to August 1 and are at the end of their rope and can hardly contain themselves.
Mothers who leave their kids on the schoolhouse steps and never look back.
Mothers who get knots in their stomach at the idea of leaving their kids all day.
Mothers who don’t want to be alone, therefore hate leaving their kids at school all day.

Me-I am a combination of all these.

I don’t countdown the days, but by the end of the summer my kids need to separated. From each other and me! I know that they need the social aspects of school just as much as they need the education. We go to a smallish Christian school, I leave them knowing they are in a great surrounded by people that love them and want the best for them.

How about you?

Which kind of Mother are you?

Because I'm the Mom thats why!

2009-08-15T14:42:00.005-05:00

The words..."Because I am the mom, that's why"! Never get me anywhere with my kids. Now, don't think I don't use it from time to time, usually when I am to lazy to explain myself or take a different approach.

Here is my question to you. Do you ummm......there is no nice way to say this. Bribe your kids? I totally do. We could call it negotiation, but even if we give it a pretty word its bribery.

Its a tool.
A very valuable tool.
Used in the right way, it makes my life easier.

Here is a recent example that comes to mind....

My four-teen year old daughter wants a Ralph Lauren swimsuit with little embroidered ponies on it. Umm...no! Not gonna spend $145 on 2 teenie little piece of fabric. Fast forward 6 weeks to our vacation, we pop over to the Ralph Lauren outlet at the last minute to "grab" something appropriate to wear for beach photographs. You know how good photos look on the beach when everyone is wearing the same color. Shopping with an almost fif-teen and almost twelve year old trying to get them to agree on ANYTHING is next to impossible!!

I digress.
often.
sorry.

Little missy spots above mentioned swimsuit from across the store on the clearance rack. She tried it on, of course it is adorable. At this point I have been sucked in. So, I put on my poker face and act like there is noooo way this swimsuit is coming home with me. Take a look at the price tag. $39.99!

HA done deal.
Must.keep.poker.face.on.

After we leave the fitting room, I make a show of putting the swimsuit back and tell them we need to get back on track. What are we wearing for the pictures?? More discord in the middle of the store. Finally I look at the big girl and say. "I will buy you that swimsuit, IF you wear whatever I want you to wear for the picture" She didn't even have to think about it! OK-she is all the sudden the happiest kid at the mall! My younger daughter, couldn't be bought that day.... :( We went to 4 different stores looking for something....came up with nothing. Finally, I gave up.

We end up wearing clothes we all had, in our suitcases. A quick load of laundry, I think the pics turned out cute.

Santa Rosa Beach

August 1-8, 2009

(excuse my squinting, the sun was killing my eyes)

I'm invisible

2009-08-10T10:17:00.002-05:00

Well--you can't see me can you??

invisible-incapable by nature of being seen; inaccessible to view

After a week of a fabulous vacation with my biggest concern being whether or not the kids were sunscreened, it seems as if I have new concepts to ponder. And this concept of invisibility, not a good one. This morning I needed to run a quick errand, (if you must know I broke a nail and needed to go see the nail guy) jumped into the closet to get dressed. Then I just stood there.....looking....I have so many clothes in there and NOTHING to wear. Which I usually think nothing about, however it immediately popped into my head that last week while vacationing I didn't have this problem! In the suitcase I packed only clothes that fit, and were casual enough for my week of doing nothing.

Did you notice that I said I packed only clothes that fit! Why do we do this to ourselves?? It feels like I am in a box, and some days there are not enough ventilation holes in my box to take a deep breath.

On my way into the shopping center to see the nail guy, I had to stop for a steady stream of people coming out of the grocery store and it occurred to me that I dress like I am invisible! Too many days I act like I am invisible. Why is it that I do this to myself?? I get dressed like no one can see me...of course they can! At some point I went from not caring what other people think about me to not caring what I think about me....

it is time to climb back out of that hole.

Love "Cliftoned" me

2009-07-20T23:17:00.000-05:00

What does that mean you ask? Last Thursday my husbands Grandpa went to join our heavenly Father. He was a wonderful Godly man. Not sure if I mentioned that my husband (he is 41 years old), until last Thursday had all 4 of his grandparents. Still married, both sets for 69 years. Grandpa was an amazing man. A godly man. A lifelong educator, and basketball coach. He LOVED his Missouri Tigers, and Kansas City Royals baseball. Last, but certainly not least he loved his family. Some of the most endearing qualities of my husband, he picked up from his Grandpa. He was so loved, I am grateful for the unconditional love he showed me!
I almost forgot to tell you about Love Cliftoned Me. When Grandpa was a boy, the would sing the hymn, Love Lifted Me, he always thought they were singing Love Cliftoned Me. Please say a quick pray for hubby, he is going to give the eulogy. He has written an outline but going to speak from the heart.

More in a few days when we return home.

How to find your lifes purpose.

2009-07-16T17:39:00.001-05:00

And other questions that a facebook couldn't possibly answer!!

Hi, my name is Lynn and I am a facebookaholic.

Nice to meet you, {your name here}

I have an addiction. I am working on the assumption that you are familiar with facebook. If you have/read/like blogging you have access to the internets. The only way you have not heard of facebook is if you have been under a rock. (and your way too pretty to have been under a rock) :)

I digress. Back to facebook.

Surely, you have also taken one of those insane quizzes that has no basis on fact/reality/actuality. But, in an effort to let you know more about me I want to share some of the answers I have received on these unreal quizzes.

"What Cute Love Quote Are You"
with the result:
If I Can Only Be With You In My Dreams, Then Let Me Sleep Forever..

(seriously?) umm...no. I think I could live without you. And what in the world is cute about that quote? I am a southern girl and when we say sleeping forever we do mean death! Most likely written by someone who thinks vampires are hot.

How Country Are You?
My result is: Weekend Country

(good to know I am not Weekday Country. Does that mean I don't say ain't or y'all during the week?)

What personality type are you?

Melancholy

(shocking, just shocking)

How Psychopathic are you?
You got Normal

(again-how could they know? I think of myself as a bit more psychopathic than normal....)

What colour is your soul?
You got Green

(Green? Why green? I wanna be more fun that green...green is so boring.)

The best part about these quizzes, I think they are written by teenagers! As most of them are not only poorly written but totally misspelled. Which just make taking them that much more interesting. Cause what in the world do teenagers know about life??

Lets's start shakin' things up!

2009-07-14T01:06:00.003-05:00

So....you are reading the blog of an older more mature blogger. Yes, it is my birthday. Today is the day I will turn 35 years old!! My husband tells me I shouldn't complain, after all I am younger than most people I know. And he is right. I have not had a birthday yet that bothered me!

What is bothering me is my hair! It is nasty.......I am considering going back to the "Rachel" that was so fabulous back in the mid-ninety's! Crazy? What do you think? Is anyone wearing that style? I want to be somewhat stylish, I just don't know what to do.

It is almost like I want to reset back to a happy time.....in computer terms my last known good configuration. I am wanting a change and the hair seems to be the most obvious!

Really---what do you think??

It takes two to make a thing go right.

2009-07-11T23:20:00.003-05:00

it takes two to make it out of sight!-DJ Jazzy Jeff from the movie the Proposal. This afternoon I took my aunt who in town visiting, along with my girls and a couple of their friends to see the movie the Proposal! I cannot tell you when I laughed so hard at a movie. It had many many funny parts. If you are looking for something to do...there were are some racy parts that were borderline questionable for their age. Not sure how you feel about innuendo, it had a couple of pretty strong sexual parts. I also think it will be out on video around the time hunting season starts. We love to watch chick flicks then when daddy is gone to deer camp!

We have also been on waiting for a call that my husbands grandfather has passed on. He is 90 years old. Until the last 5 years he was able to enjoy life. It has been hard on the family, we know he is going to a better place to rest with the lord. They live 6 hours from us and right now my husband is up there visiting his family, trying to give his mom and grandmother the support they need. Grandpa is in hospice. Shane is spending the night on a cot with him. I tend to not always talk of him with all the love I truly feel. My husband is a wonderful family oriented man.

Please pray for peace for the family members. Pray that we can be at peace knowing grandpa is going to heaven to sing with the angels.

I wanna....

2009-07-10T23:32:00.002-05:00

Live!!

I do not enjoy life nearly enough!

I want to ice skate.
I want to ride go carts.
I want to go to the public pool....and not be self conscious!!!
I want to enjoy a day on the lake.
I want to walk around the amusement park without being winded.
I want to learn to play golf.
I want to roller skate.
I want to bicycle.
I want to not be worn out after an hour in the mall!
I want to feel like peeling wallpaper and painting.

It seems like a successful day for me is keeping laundry kept up and meals fixed. And I do mean fixed, I have not cooked in ages!

Ugh! I know its up to me....no one else is gonna light a fire under me!

Boom, Boom, Pow

2009-07-05T23:09:00.006-05:00

As you can see I have been playing with sizing and such..perhaps I can get this figured out soon. I also wanted to put a watermark on the photos for protection.

Hello! Hello? is anybody out there?

2009-07-01T10:30:00.002-05:00

Welcome to another week of love from Amber and the peeps that frequent her blog! She gathers us once a week to share our struggles with eating better and becoming a more healthy person.

Here is how my week went! Like crap......I seem to be stuck. I guess I shouldnt complain too much, I am stuck at my lowest weight in the 8 months. But its just so frustrating. As I have said in the past few weeks, I would see more progress if I put more work into it!

My fridge went out on Monday. (the part wont be in until Friday) My biggest problem here has been no ice! Crap, I love me some ice. I refuse to drink anything without ice. Even if it is cold from the fridge it must have ice. I dont even drink coffee b/c warm drinks make me GAG! Ick.

And with the holiday this weekend I dont think things are going to get any better. Our little town has a parade, and a festival. After the parade instead of spending our money at the festival we host a neighborhood potluck. Kids swim, we shoot off fireworks, then we take our golf car to go watch the HUGE fireworks show that is done by the city to conclude the festival. We gather on the golf course where the country club sets up a bar for us to "visit"! Because fireworks and alcohol go together so well..........

The post where I tell y'all how blessed I am.

2009-06-29T21:51:00.002-05:00

Thanks for your words of encouragement after my last post about being down in the dumps. I have had several bad weeks that seemed to be a culmination of things.

But.........things are looking up!! My mind seems to be getting back to a more level place. I feel more in control of what is going on inside that scary brain of mine!

Thanks again-this is what blogging buddies are for....you make me realize it is ok to be me! Love You Guys.

...It'll be alright, come Monday I'll be.......

2009-06-28T22:25:00.002-05:00

In the gym by daylight??

Probably not but it sounds good with the song.

One of my very good high school buddies has decided to join us for EMME. Please take a minute today to stop over, read her story and welcome her into our group. Click on link to go Tricia's blog.

Thanks my blogger peeps!!! You are the best!

Down in the Dumps

2009-06-24T23:54:00.002-05:00

My story is very involved. I will just keep it brief and tell you my older sister died in a motorcycle crash 2 months after her high school graduation. This day was also my 11th birthday. The world as I knew it changed drastically. My mother went C-R-A-Z-Y! Now that I have children I get it. My 11 year old self didn't get it.

Everyday I get up and struggle with depression. Some of it is genetic, I really try not to play that card-it is too easy to slip into my life sucks and nothing is going to make it better mentality.

This week my days have been better. I really wish I were not so emotional. However, this is the life I have....

I want to enjoy it. But I don't.

There is really no good reason.

Except my mind is not right.

Just wanted to put this out there so I can look back and see where I am.

Extreme Makeover Me Edition

2009-06-24T08:58:00.003-05:00

Here we are it has been another week. Be sure to visit Mr. Linky at Amber's website to learn more about her EMME!

Yesterday morning I was feeling thinner, I weighed and was down 2 pounds. In my effort to actually keep things real I went ahead and weighed this morning and found yesterdays 2 pounds....yep! I am right back where I was last week. I really am feeling better. Everyday I am trying harder to drink more water. (with the help of my Sonic cup) My arms are feeling smaller, my face looks smaller. This week I am going to embrace that small victory and let myself enjoy the progress hopefully it will emerge in the form of motivation! (let me just get out my ring for the wonder twin activate in the form of positive self talk) If you didn't get that....sorry! If you did-well you know what that means!This weeks question posed to all of us is.......

"Who is your biggest supporter/motivator in your weight loss? Do you have anyone around you that tries to sabotage you by "talking" you in to eating the not so good stuff?"

My husband is supportive, would do anything I asked him to help me out. (I just never ask) He would never make a comment about what I am eating or not eating. Exercising or not. Unless I specifically ask him to. And I don't. I don't like that kind of accountability. It makes me so much more likely to "cheat" when he is not around!

I did say in my last post that my daughter has been all about the exercise! She is very active and really happy to push me into working out...and if I slip into calling myself fat, she is quick to say "your not fat" its nice to hear, even if I know better. (I am just sayin')

That leads to to the biggest sabotager (is that a word?) that would be me. I am too laid back. It shows in my diet! Which also shows in my butt.......

What would this world be like without Daddies?

2009-06-21T01:54:00.000-05:00

I want to wish a Happy Father's Day to my 2 favorite Daddy's in the world! It may not be politically correct to mention my own Daddy first, you know since I knew him first! He has been the #1 parent in my life! I blogged about that some time ago...if you are interested in learning more about why I am the way that I am, read here. It touches on how great my dad is!

The next daddy that I must talk about is my wonderful husband Shane click on his name if you want to read the thankful post I wrote about him on Thanksgiving last year. I cannot share with all of you just how great he is! No really, I can't! (: Just trust me he is great! And some (notice I didn't say all) is more than I deserve!

And a shout out to all of you...love your dads, love your husbands. And even when its hard love the father of your children, just remember it is for your children and we all want whats best for the kids!

The way I are....

2009-06-19T21:03:00.005-05:00

I am about to share something with you blogger peeps.

I am judgmental!

Why, you ask? Oh, you didn't? Let me tell you anyway....

Really, I have no idea why! I have been trying very hard for the last couple of years to not just make judgements about things I don't know about, or people whether I know them or not. Just thought I would let you know that about myself. I am also very sarcastic. People say that sarcasm is a shield or a defense mechanism, or a crutch. Could be! Could be that I am just a smarta**.

p.s. If you were sitting near the man on the flight from Dallas to Little Rock Friday afternoon that lost his ~~vodka from the night before~~ lunch sorry about that! That man may or may not be my husband.

Go me!

2009-06-16T18:31:00.006-05:00

Welcome to another week of EMME! Amber hosts this weekly support group of women trying their best to improve their lifestyle. Be sure to click on the photo below to visit her site and all the other great ladies.

This was a good week for me. Remember I didn't weigh last week so the 2 pounds I have lost has been over a two week period. But as I have said before its better than a poke in the eye.

Last week while traveling I pretty much ate fast food. I did make good choices and do my best to cut down the soda consumption. When I have fast food I really like to drink iced tea, I am not a good iced tea maker, but I really do like to drink it.

I have been noticing that my arms and legs are smaller. We switched to AT&T uverse a couple of months ago. We have a channel called FIT TV. My oldest daughter has found this channel and appointed herself my personal trainer. Talk about motivating...she wants to spend that hour with me. Maybe its only so she can laugh at me trying to exercise but sadly she is at an age where I take what I can get.

Amber gives us a question each week to help us learn from each other. This week the question is:

Post a picture of the contents of your fridge so everyone can see how much healthy food is (not) in it.

In my attempt to keep it real I didn't try to neaten or rearrange anything even though I cringe everytime I open it these days.....summer is killing me!! My daughters have best friends that are sisters and they are always at our house or theirs. That gives me not 2 girls but 4 girls! I shouldnt complain, they do not mind fixing their own food! But then I end up with this, things just shoved in! BTW: look hard, not much healthy in there. *hangs my head in shame*

Show us where you live....

2009-06-14T17:17:00.005-05:00

It's another show us where you live Friday...that I didn't get to until Sunday. Click on the picture above to visit Kelly's blog and the bathrooms of MANY others.

Welcome to our bath:

this is the entrance from the master bedroom!

The prints are some canvases I bought at Gordmans a couple of years ago. The table is from Pier 1 was labeled as a desk, it has 2 small drawers.

Vanity area. We took the ceiling to top of vanity mirror! It was huge! I really like these that came from Garden Ridge at $99 for each. I wanted to hang them vertically but the sinks are not centered and they looked stupid. They could not hang lower because of electrical outlets. You can tell a man made those decisions. Not a good one. I would have sacrificed those outlets as I have outlets inside the false drawers below the sinks.

Back in 2004 I framed this picture of the girls taken in 2/1998. E was 3 SJ was 5 months old. This was the day before SJ spent 4 days in the hospital with RSV.

The evening I put this picture out SJ wrote this note to E!! I still laugh everytime I see it. I keep it behind the picture in the frame.

The black leather rectangle ottoman came from IO Metro. Most of their stuff is too modern for my taste but a great store.

Our small chandeleir, I love the ceiling medallion! We used a lighting designer from a small local hardware store that didn't charge anything if we bought from him. He spent a couple of hours here at our house helping me to pick fixtures, ceiling fans, and cabinet and door knobs that I ordered as I could.

Both doors are entrances to the L-shaped closets. Our other 2 bathrooms are nothing special and I was too lazy to take pictures and talk about something so uninspiring.

Lynn Needs:

2009-06-09T23:20:00.003-05:00

I was over reading some old posts on Connie's blog and she posted some of the thing.s she needs per google.....me being the follower that I am thought this might be fun! Here is what Lynn needs according to google.

Lynn you need to figure out a special way to deal with your stress girl. Another way besides food. Go for a walk, a hot bath, ...
Lynn need some hugs from you!!
Lynn Needs Help With Her Baby Y'all!.
LYNN needs help
(no lie-those were the first 4 things google tells me I need)
Lynn needs a blog {there is one we can take off the list}
Lynn Needs Your Help Again -- Vote for her in Flex Magazine's Bikini Contest! She has posed for Playboy and was on VH1's Most Smartest Model. {I am guessing this is not the same Lynn that needs to find a way to handle stress that is not food}

I am cracking myself up!!!

On the upside....

2009-06-09T22:44:00.004-05:00

no scale to weigh myself. :) On the downside....too many mirrors. For some reason I never look at myself in the mirror at home. Maybe I am acclimated to them?? I imagine I divert my eyes when I see them! So staying in a hotel ALL by myself I am running around with mirrors everywhere! This is the week at Cheer camp.....luckily no one expects me to do any cheering-that could get ugly quick!

The girls are staying in a fairly new dorm room at one of the State University campuses. Their room is on the 3rd floor with no elevators. And in true college fashion nothing is close by, everything is a bit of a walk. In case I forget to mention it-I LOVE cheer camp!!! I cannot tell you when I last had so much fun. (sad, I know)

On to business. Its time for another week of Extreme Makeover Me Edition. Amber hosts our weekly support group (click on picture below) please go and support all of my buddies in this attempt to improve our health and our lives.

This weeks question "What's your favorite thing to drink while you're losing weight? We all know how important it is to get that water intake up, especially with summer almost here. What's your favorite way to spice it up?" is easy for me. I am not really a spice it up kind of girl. I have been getting a large water with extra ice from Sonic every morning! Yes it costs $.47 and its so worth it. After I finish that water I have enough ice to refill a couple of more times!!! My water intake has risen in the weeks since school got out and I have been doing it this way!

Let me show you where I live.....the office

2009-06-06T22:02:00.003-05:00

Kelly over at Kelly's Korner is hosting show us where you live Friday's. Click on the picture above to visit and see more of where others live.

Below is my computer armoire-it houses the desktop computer aka: the family computer. I use the laptop sitting in my chair. This is the last room in our house we decorated. The walls are a deep olive green. Since this room has been finished it is the most often used room in the house, if all 4 of us are in here we curl up in chairs together or someone is on the floor. The chair was my grandmothers vanity chair from the 1930's. I have her entire bedroom set she and my grandfather met when they married in 1919. Since I do not have a room for it, I keep it at my dad's house.The armoire closed. I bought this 2 houses ago to use for our computer, since then it ws used for a TV when we had a desk for the computer.
Our chairs. The one on the left is my husbands brown leather recliner. All the leather in our house is the same brown leather so we can move things from room to room as needed. I LOVE my chair. It is the first chair in my adult life I have referred to a chair as my chair. We are becoming little old people retiring to our chairs in the evening to watch our "programs". Make sure you see the FABULOUS viny branches hanging from the ceiling. I love them as well. They came from a decorator/antique store here in town, where they were hanging from the ceiling on their covered porch. The furniture for this room had been ordered and I was relaxing on that porch waiting for my friends to finish their shopping after a glass of wine (or 2) I looked up and thought they would be perfect!
The view from "my" chair. Just picture Y&R and you are here with me!!

Hope you enjoyed the visit. I was not going to post but since this is my favorite room in the house I wanted to share. Be sure and visit next Friday to see our master bath. It is my 2nd favorite in the house!!!

And the winner of staying the same is........

2009-06-04T16:52:00.003-05:00

....it's me of course!! Cause week after week of EMME-here I am! 10 weeks and I feel like I have not gotten very far! Enough about me!

This weeks question is:

What's your favorite beauty secret?

I have a few.....

drink plenty of water, I feel like it has lots to do with my clear skin
Oil of Olay moisturizer with spf 15
never blow drying my hair, it has stays pretty healthy by washing it at night then in the morning when it is dry I do whatever I need to
sleeping at least 7 hours (so hard for me to do)

Make sure to visit Ambers blog to read more about

Extreme Makeover Me Edition

Lampapalooza....really!!

2009-05-28T16:09:00.003-05:00

So I read the Nester, I love her ideas. Today she is hosting a lamp show-off party. I am sharing with you the ones in my house that are my favorites!! A couple of them need something.....what that is I am unsure.

Below-this floor lamp I found on clearance at Sams it is an indoor/outdoor lamp with a HUGE canvas shade. I felt like it needed something so my neighbor and I added this trim and beads. The beads make it look like it belongs in grandma's parlor.....I would like to take them off and do something different to it, but am unsure as to what.
This lamp is my favorite lamp and it is in my favorite room of the house. I love the shape and style of this lamp. I love the animal print on the inside of the shade. What I do not like about this lamp is, it is not very bright.
In the picture below is the lamp on my husbands nightstand. There is a matching lamp on my side of the bed....red is my favorite color. These lamps are not very bright either but so different and so cool that I really like them.
This lamp is in a corner in my bedroom. Not sure if you can tell in the picture, but it goes with the lamps on our nightstands. This lamp with its red shade is fabulous!!!
Thanks for stopping by to see my lamps. Be sure to visit the Nesting Place to see what others have done with their lamps.

Uh oh--up is the wrong way to go!!!

2009-05-27T07:22:00.004-05:00

Welcome to another week of EMME. EMME is hosted by Amber, click here to check out her blog and visit the other participants.

My week....didn't go as well as it has in the past few. I am up .5 lbs. This seems minor, unfortunately even to me. I am not one to beat myself up over such matters, obviously or I wouldn't be where I am today. Its just that I am realistic about such matters. There will be up and down weeks.

Yesterday I had my first epidural injection to treat my back pain. I am very optimistic about it helping, hard to say if it is....there seems to be discomfort at the injection site. I go back on the 15th for another injection. I do intend to get outside and walk with the intent to call it exercise. Starting late this week. There is a long list of things I am not supposed to do, cleaning is on that list. Today I intend to enjoy it!!! My kids last day of school was Friday and we have not been able to spend one day at home. I have decided today will be THE day we spend at home. shhhhh.....I haven't told the kids yet!!

Every week Amber asks a question of all of us......but not this week!! Lucky for you, this post has gotten way to long anyway!!

Several things...

2009-05-25T19:52:00.003-05:00

On Monday we went to see Night at the Museum! I thought it was really cute. I have not seen the first one, and yet I still enjoyed the second one.

About half-way through the movie I needed to visit the ladies room. While there I made the mistake of looking into the mirror, I have shared with you all how I do not see a fat person in the mirror.....imagine my horror when I looked up while washing my hands and my upper arms look HUGE! (surely its not b/c they are)!!!! Ugh-thats motivation.

Not sure if I remembered to tell you last week after my visit with the spine doctor I have arthritis. In other news Tuesday afternoon I am having an epidural injection in my back to try and help isolate the pain. If it helps the next step is singeing the nerves in that lower area. Please feel free to give me your support. If you only have a horror story about please keep it to yourself. Of course I have tried many other things before this step and something has to give. The pain that I have in my lower back daily is almost debilitating, and has really affected my lifestyle. Later if I am not too loopy I will let you all know how I am.

So remember....I want your love and support! And if you dont have anything nice to say...dont say anything.

I am a Twit!!

2009-05-25T09:24:00.003-05:00

So I have given in to the pressure...if you are signed up on twitter find me my username is: seriouslyreal or leave me a comment with yours, and I will come stalk or follow if you would prefer.

Dirty Word

2009-05-24T22:07:00.002-05:00

This sign was for sale in a store I stopped in today. I had not seen it before, maybe you guys have. It is too funny too not share in case you haven't seen it!!

Another week of work!

2009-05-21T22:22:00.002-05:00

Click on photo above to visit EMME over at Amber's blog.She has organized a support group to help us to get more healthy. First the details, I lost .5 this week. Still moving in the right direction. I know that half the battle is having the right mindset so I have been trying my best to be thinking that way. My own my mind seems to be my biggest enemy as I have said before. Amber's question this week is: Name your guilty pleasure. Think of a healthier choice you could use as a substitute.My guilty pleasure these days seems to be laziness. This laziness is being driven by the back pain. For which I finally have diagnosed as arthritis in 3 joints in my lower back including my SI joint. Basically what it means it far too much pain. My doctor now has a plan of treatment. I am thinking positive thoughts about making the treatment work and rejoining my life that has been on pause toooo long. Ready to hit play! Don't forget to leave a comment if you have any suggestions for me-I need all the help I can get. And be sure to visit Amber's blog and leave some feedback for everyone struggling with self-improvement.

Cranky...and other stuff!!

2009-05-14T22:03:00.002-05:00

I am cranky.....more about that in a few days when I am less cranky!!

On a more positive note Saturday night my husband and I will be going (with a group of friends) to see Kenny Chesney. Whom I think is precious and I love his music, my husband could be his biggest fan!! He finds the tropical sounds relaxing. So like every girl with somewhere to go, now I am in a delima over what to wear, any suggestions? I am a little upset that my cute cowboy boots no longer fit. They are from my college days, and for some reason my freakin feet grew a half size with each of my 2 pregnancies. Another very good reason for stopping at 2 kids.

Now if only my butt had grown only 2 sizes.

Not a pretty picture......

2009-05-13T12:42:00.003-05:00

Why is it that every week I am surprised I have not lost more than I have that week. Considering you get out as much as you put in, and evidently I am not putting enough in! (enough whining) Welcome to another edition of Extreme Makeover Me Edition hosted by Amber be sure and go over and visit the inspirational Amber and Mr. Linky to give encouragement, something everyone can use!!

Every week Amber gives us a question to help us and others think about where we are, and where we are going and how to best get there. This weeks question is...........

Show us your inspiration picture. Of yourself skinny, of yourself fat, of a celebrity that inspires you to keep going.

See that doorway to the left of the mirror? That is my master bedroom, I wish I could count the number of times in a day I walk by here. Recently I have made and effort to actually slow down and look in the mirror, and really see myself. Not just the person my brain thinks I am. (in my mind I am 117 lb) In actuality I am not! That would be my unpretty picture.

What keeps you going?

Moving in the right direction, and if its working be sure to share!

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T22:23:00.004-05:00

Happy Mother's Day! I have met many great moms here in blog land! I have enjoyed getting to know you and believe in real life we would be fast

friends. Hope you all had a good day with your family.

And now a peek at my mothers day. First here I am with my girls, this certainly shows their personality. These pics were taken Saturday the Clinton Presidential Library downtown. My good friend Tracy was nice enough to take pictures of the girls Saturday and I snuck into this one. Without a doubt there will be more that I want to share later.
These last to pics I borrowed from flickr.....

You know I have been having back pain, my huband indulged my request for the pedestals for the washer & dryer I bought last spring. I did not buy them at the time b/c I am short.... 5'0", didn't think I needed them and wanted to be able to use the top surface as a folding table. The best part was he installed them before he showed me that was my surprise!

My favorite gift was the Pandora bracelet!!

This is not my bracelet...

Being a Stay at Home Mom for 11 years has been the most difficult and rewarding thing I have ever done!! Way back my first Mother's Day I told my husband I did not need a gift, just take the girls and entertain them for a day. I didn't care where they went or what they did I just wanted a peaceful day at home by myself with silence.....and every year he has come through. I have great kids and a great husband!! I love you guys.

Show us where you live living rooms!!

2009-05-07T20:48:00.004-05:00

Everybody knows Kelly...she is the mom of the beautiful baby Harper!! She is hosting a house tour, this week we are showcasing living rooms. Click here to visit her living room and Mr. Linky to visit new friends.

I have a family room and what we call a sitting room. Of course no one sits in it, but it is pretty to look at. The rooms are pretty open to one another divided only by the double sided fireplace that is in serious need of updating. We are not proud of the green tile with brass surround (bet you can guess when the house was built) We are not the original owners of this house, but it is beautiful and in a great location we love it!!

Below is the family room side of the fireplace-pics were taken in October.

Below is the family room area-how about the Y&R?? The rest are the sitting room, we pass through here to get to the master bedroom and the office area. The office we use as a den type of room and it is my favorite room of the house. I will share it on a later day.

Don't forget to visit other homes on the tour!

Not really what I had in mind...

2009-05-06T09:22:00.002-05:00

....but better than a poke in the eye!

This week I lost a grand total of 1.5 pounds. So not a huge weight loss which is certainly preferable to weight gain. As you have no doubt guessed by now I am a fly by the seat of my pants girl, I am sure not having a plan is holding me back. I just hate to be accountable. That is my own issue....maybe someday! I did do a pretty good job of not eating junk. Adding in some fruit (the man selling fresh strawberries out of the back of his truck on the side of the road has returned) and cutting way back on soda and junk has been key for me. I know if I added in exercise it may help to up my results. And for the question of the week:

Today share one thing with that you absolutely love about yourself:

This is an easy one for me-my hair! Luckily it is not affected by my weight its always the same! I do get highlights every 6-8 weeks. Recently I find myself wishing I had never started with the highlights, as you can't stop. Those roots get a little excessive and I am run right back to the salon. Its like crack for your hair. :) I should also tell you I have used the same girl since I was 11. She was fresh out of beauty school working at a mall salon and my mom and I went to her a few times and I have just followed her all over the place. When I lived 2 hours away I still drove home when it was time to get a haircut. I can't wait to hear what everyone loves about themselves. If you want to read more stories be sure to visit the Mr. Linky party over at Amber's click here.

Playdates

2009-05-05T01:10:00.003-05:00

As mothers we struggle daily about how to do the best for our kids.

Missy at It's Almost Naptime is asking about

how to handle play dates with a stranger.

Today, I am discussing the play date.

Do we let our children go play at a strangers home?

I think no. It is pretty easy to get to know someone. You will know within minutes if this is someone you can trust with this piece of your heart.

I think the world we live in is a scary place.

Here are my suggestions.

Adapt them to fit your situation.

Visit the other parents, when this first play date is suggested try to organize an outing, this could be an hour at the park, a visit to the local fast food place with a playground for ice cream. It is so much easier to leave your child when you are familiar with the host.
Make sure your child knows to follow the rules of the house when at a friends house-there is nothing worse than a kid that sasses back when they do not agree with your rules.
Teach your kids their phone number and address.
Start small-just an hour or two at a time
Make definite plans to drop off and pick your child up
Ask who will be in the home while your child is there-this is info you need. Point out that you will be there at X time to pick up your child and you expect him to be where you left them.
Have the other adults call you if the plan changes so you can make the decision for your child. Don't feel bad, this is your baby we are talking about.

A rite of passage.....

2009-05-05T00:50:00.004-05:00

Missy over at It's almost naptime is asking about how to allow your babies to begin to spread their wings.

Last weekend on Friday night I had 12 kids aged 11-14 hanging out at my house. When bedtime came I had 6 girls=2 jr high+4 sixth graders.

This is an average weekend at my house.

And I LOVE it!!

I decided before I had kids to be that mom. I am not an overly fun mom....my house isn't decorated to the "T". In no way is my goal to be their friend, I am happy to be their mentor, confidante.

I am also willing to hear all stories and know lots about what is going on with the classmates. I like that and feel better able to guide my children to the correct path. When needed I am happy to pass on advice and "secrets" to the appropriate parents,

because I am of the it takes a village mentality.

We run into problems when the children are better people than their parents. That happens, and it becomes a time to teach our children why our values are important to us. The most important lesson is follow your gut. As a parent. teach your children to do the same.

Most of us have to ability to do this, and in uncomfortable situations........use your common sense.

Sleepovers are a right of passage.

Help your child use good judgement in who they choose to associate with and hopefully it will follow them throughout their childhood all the way through adulthood.

I wrote a post on discipline that applies to this same idea

....click here to check it out.

Rah...Rah...Rah....

2009-05-03T23:32:00.004-05:00

I have been known to say,"I would live vicariously through my children, If only I could get them to do what I want to do!"

Today we had our parent/child meeting for cheer. To meet the new girls and parents.

I was asked to be cheer camp mom. I will be going to cheer camp with these girls. I have never been to cheer camp, but I am thinking I must be pretty cool if I am going to cheer camp!! right?

Tanning Bed!!

2009-05-02T15:16:00.003-05:00

So, E wanted me to take her to tan one afternoon this week. (I tan on occasion, when getting ready for a trip or night out. I am not against it for adults. Just growing children) In case I haven't mentioned it enough she is 14! My reaction was NO FREAKIN WAY!! Because that is my first reaction to most any question I am asked!!! (lots of exclamations points)

I told her I have spent the last 14 years of her life slathering her in sunblock and no.....not gonna help her fry her pretty skin.

I don't want to judge those who think this is OK. (HA) Its not right for my child--she is a child and I would no more give her a glass of wine with dinner.

What do you think about this subject??? I need some input.

Show Us Where You Live Friday: Kitchen Edition

2009-04-30T23:04:00.004-05:00

Today I thought I would share my kitchen. Everyone knows Kelly over at Kelly's Korner click here to visit her site and check out kitchens from all over blogland. Being involved with EM:ME the kitchen is a very big part of that so here it is......
and in my continuing effort to Keep it Real.

This is my kitchen after the tile began falling off last fall.

Don't worry, a little liquid nails and it was just like new. :)

These pics were taken in the fall.

Not specifically for this but I do love my small kitchen.

This is the overview of what it looks like.

The pic below was taken standing in the exact same spot.

Below is the table we eat our dinners as a family

as often as the schedule allows. Which is not often enough.

My pretty green metal canisters....I love them!

Usually I have an arrangement of seasonal flowers in the tea canister
I just went and snapped this one so I could share the top of my cabinets....it is my favorite part of the entire kitchen

I can't wait to go see all the different kitchens!!!
(I did so want to clean up the clutter in the left corner,
then decided, I have kids....let it be:) )

Extreme Makeover Me Edition

2009-04-28T23:51:00.005-05:00

Welcome to a successful week of Extreme Makeover~Me Edition, Amber hosts this weekly support group. I enjoy reading about the journey we are all on to improve our lives in some way. Different people have different objectives and goals. Click on the link or button above to read the stories of my new friends!

My goal: to feel better.

To feel better I must lose weight.

And this week......success

Drum roll please....

I lost 3.5 lbs

(funny how important a .5 can be)

With that I have to say, I have tried to get back to basics this week.

Make a good meal choices

Eat more fruit

Drink less soda

Eat more veggies

Cut out snacks (this is my weakness)

Be more active

I think these things led me to success. I don't feel like I deprived myself. Also, my in-laws were here for 3 nights/4 days. This added to my stress level, I thought it would negate the activity level being up.

Can I just say Yay for me!!

Amber is encouraging us to share a recipe this week.

This is one of my favorite's from the book

Eat up Slim Down

Chicken Fiesta Mexicana
4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves

2 tablespoons ground cumin

2 tablespoons minced garlic or garlic powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp ground black pepper

1 cup of salsa

3/4 cup (3 oz) shredded reduced fat sharp cheddar

3/4 cup (3oz) shredded reduced fat monterey jack

optional: 1 small avocado, pitted, peeled and sliced

Preheat oven to 350 degrees:

~Place chicken on a med. nonstick baking dish. Coat both sides with of chicken with nonstick spray. Sprinkle both sides evenly with cumin, garlic, salt and pepper. Top with salsa. Bake for 20 minutes
~Remove from the oven and sprinkle with the cheeses. Bake 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and a thermometer registers 160 degrees in thickest part of breast and juices run clear. Serve with avocado if desired.

My twist on this is I never have Monterey Jack on hand so I leave that off, just the cheddar seems to be plenty of cheese. And we NEVER use salt, on anything. That is not an exaggeration. I keep my salt shaker in my laundry room to use on my "new" colored clothes.

Per Serving:

284 calories

32 grams protein

12 grams carbs

12 grams fat

76 mg cholesterol

924 mg sodium

5 grams fiber

Diet Exchanges:

0 milk

0 veggies

0 fruit

0 bread

4 meat

0 fat

Ok---I just typed all that.

If you cook this I want to hear what you think. My husband will sometimes slice his and eat it in a tortilla.

Outdoor Wednesday (a little early)

2009-04-28T21:08:00.011-05:00

This is my first ever Outdoor Wednesday post.

It is hosted by A Southern Daydreamer go check out everyones take on Outdoor Wednesday! I hope to participate often, I plan to begin planting this weekend and I am getting very excited about it!

First swim of the summer....in April!

First one was pushed in fully dressed, then I had the neighborhood kids flocking to the pool. All fully dressed!

I love summer, I love planting my flowers, I love the freedom, I love the warm weather, I love the visiting with friends that we never seem to have time for any other time.

What do you love about Summer?

Moms that discipline

2009-04-28T08:09:00.004-05:00

Did she go to far?? I am all about discipline. At first I thought, its responsible parenting to discipline. I am all about shock and awe parenting. But I just went and read the story. They were THREE miles from home. That is too far. They were not toddlers, they are 13 and 10. Maybe three blocks from home....

How many times have you seen a parent in the store not discipline her kid and judge her for having a bad kid? Yet parents that do are judged as well. How far is too far? I believe you have to discipline when behavior occurs, I am not a "you wait till we get home" kind of mom. But the kids that generally (not all) need the public discipline are generally the very ones who probably don't get much at home. I am not talking toddlers here, I am talking the school age kids.

Parenting is not easy. Certainly not for the weak. Parents must be strong to do the battles that must be done day in and day out. Consistency is key and realize your gonna hurt your kids feelings, your gonna make them angry!! Let them sit in it for a while! I never apologize for the discipline I give-Mommy is sorry she put you in time out. NO WAY! Don't be sorry for that. Tell them your sorry their behavior is not better, if you must apologize for something. They need to learn that they are making the choice to be in time out by not doing what is expected of them. All behaviors have consequences.....it is best they know that from the beginning it makes their life easier in the long run!

*I am no expert, just a mom with opinions

When life changes....

2009-04-27T23:16:00.005-05:00

E~November 1997

3 years old

with her "B"

....to this
E~April 2009
14 years old
a heartbreaker

....not a bad change just different. At our home we are entering a new phase of life. My oldest is 14 ~little missy, we will call her E has her first boyfriend. She is in 8th grade. I told myself this will last a few days and be over. Not true. It has been 4 months!?!!???! The last month they have actually moved from just texting and seeing each other at school to wanting to spend time together on the weekends. I feel like I am in wayyy over my head. So far I have been able to have them (and friends) at our house where I am the supervision. How long that will last is unknown. E is a great kid, straight A's, has a few friends at a time, and is reserved and generally a good and level-headed kid. She is I think what we could call it "blossoming" and I don't like it one bit!!!

I have always been of the "it takes a village" philosophy, unfortunately, it seems as if I am the only one going through this stage. I need help-----how do I handle this life transition with grace??

Extreme Makeover Me Edition~Seriously!!

2009-04-22T11:11:00.003-05:00

Be sure to visit Amber's Blog she has Mr. Linky set up to share more stories!

There are people there more motivational than me.
I gained~3 FREAKIN pounds!

I know that its my fault, I haven't put the effort into exercise these past two weeks. I didn't do an EMME post last week. My aunt that is like a mother to me is moving to a town 2 hours away from me!! YAY! I say YAY b/c she has been living 20 hours away for the last 10 years and I can't wait to have her closer. Last week I was gone for a few days to help her find a place to live. I ate horribly while I was traveling and the hours spent in the car were hard on my back issues. Bad enough that I have scheduled the MRI for tomorrow to find the actual problem, hopefully leading to a way to make the pain end!! (enough whining for now)

Amber's question of the week is:

Share some of the music that you work out to.

What helps you rock it!?

What gets your blood pumpin?

My favorite new workout song is

Black-Eyed Peas- BOOM BOOM POW

I am jammin' just thinking about that song. LOVE IT!!

My playlist is made up of dance/old school rap!

Eminem

Justin Timberlake

Rhianna

Beyonce'

FloRida

Nickelback

Danity Kane

Jay-Z

Kanye West

Kardinal

Lady GaGa

Madonna

Pussycat Dolls

Salt-n-Pepa

T.I

Timbaland

Taylor Swift

Rascal Flatts

Toby Keith

Garth Brooks

Kenny Chesney

Will Smith

If I could get my workouts up to make through my entire playlist then I might be able to tip the scales in the right direction!

Pray that my MRI will bring some answers!!!

Seriously?

Where am I at?

Friend Makin Monday: The Last Thing

Life’s about change, nothing ever stays the same

Why….

Summer fun

July 27-2010

ahhh….

He sad. She Said

Where I would rather be.

Shingles

Are you a fan?

*Never fear*

{ICK}

{TOM}

Hi, my name is Lynn

Thoughts to ponder

Dr. Google, please find your way out of my computer. You do not ease my mind you make me super nervous!

Feeling strange

A meme

Figuring Things Out

Tally-ho!!!

Black what??

Thankfulness day #4

Thankfulness day #3

Thanksgiving day #2

Thankfulness day #1

I am a quitter

Saturday Randomness

dreams

Super Stretch Jeans

Clean or Cluttered?

Blessings

R-E-B-O-U-N-D

A girls weekend

I've Come To Realize

In case you were wondering…

What a pit

So Random

What?! Your having a party?!?!

Replacement

Keeping up

A thing of beauty

The one about…

What a mess!!

How my kids are making me gray!

What do I do?

Oh la la…

Welcome to Monday

NaBloPoMo

Smashing Pumpkins

Halloween Past

Boys will be boys.....

The Best Day

Are you my classmate?

I saw, I clicked, I kept!

Summary Saturday

Hitting the Red Carpet

School Days

Because I'm the Mom thats why!

I'm invisible

Love "Cliftoned" me

How to find your lifes purpose.

Lets's start shakin' things up!

It takes two to make a thing go right.

I wanna....

Boom, Boom, Pow

Hello! Hello? is anybody out there?

The post where I tell y'all how blessed I am.

...It'll be alright, come Monday I'll be.......

Down in the Dumps

Extreme Makeover Me Edition

What would this world be like without Daddies?

The way I are....

Go me!

Show us where you live....

Lynn Needs:

On the upside....

Let me show you where I live.....the office

And the winner of staying the same is........

Never fear