I Won't Worry My Life Away

Spring

2010-04-28T09:22:00.003-05:00

Well folks it's Spring. I had a rough time the first several weeks...but now the sun is out, flowers are bloomed and the world is beautiful again. These are flowers that are right outside my front door. I adore Spring once my allergies turn off. I think I'm just about there (thanks to a steroid shot).

I have been working out a lot and watching my diet...which has really paid off. I have lost some weight and feel really good. I feel strong.

My "Houseaversary" is May 7th. Yes, it's been almost a YEAR that I've been a homeowner. I'm so happy/proud and loooooooooove my home still. It has been very rewarding to own and maintain my home for the last year. I have several projects that I need to do (of course).....but all will come in time. I'm in no rush.

Blogging

2010-04-14T14:12:00.002-05:00

I think it's time I start blogging again. What do you think? I used to really enjoy blogging. I think I'll get back on it.

I know....

2009-09-24T13:16:00.002-05:00

I just haven't felt like blogging ok? It's not like I don't have anything to say....just nothing that is so interesting I felt like blogging about it.

I am FULL...to the top. I ate some chinese noodles and chicken for lunch....oh and a few spicy chips........THEN....much to my displeasure my friend in the office put down in front of me one of the best pieces of apple cake I've ever had. Covered in Cool Whip too. I hated it, really ;) I was already full when she brought it in...but who am I to be rude right? Ok, so I let it sit on my desk for a good 20 minutes before I ate it. I hate feeling this full. It's not comfortable. At least I wore stretchy pants today ..hehe.

Damn diets. Damn budgets. Damn men.

Ok, I'm done.

Where to Begin?

2009-07-24T13:48:00.002-05:00

I know I've been a slacker when it comes to updating this blog. So here is my big update. There is so much to update on that I'm afraid I'm going to have to section it out.

Home: We are unpacked and I even (finally) decorated this week! Everything I do to improve the way my home looks makes me feel so good. I've never "nested" in a home, because I've always knew it wasn't REALLY mine.....so why put forth the effort? This one is mine, and I plan to live there a very long time...so nesting I'm doing.

Personal Life: Single and loving it. I have no interest in anyone and I'm happy to keep it that way. Jeff and I have agreed to file for divorce next month, when we are best suited financially to do so. We are doing extremely well with having a friendly relationship...and for that I'm very grateful.

Kids:

-Jewel is turning 18 tomorrow!!! She is returning to SM East as a "super senior" ....that means she flunked 12th grade to be blunt. I'm proud of her that she is taking responsibility and going back. She is doing really well and I'm really proud of her development.

- Lizzy is getting ready to turn 13. She is very much a "tween". Still a reading fool and still being a great kid. I have FINALLY paid off her violin (3 years!). She is starting middle school in a few weeks.

-Chris turned 9 June 21st. He is going to start at a new school in a few weeks. He just finished out his baseball season with a 2nd place World Series finish. That is impressive! He is no longer on that team and is taking a step back and re-joining the team he played with the season before last. It'll be less stressful for everyone involved.

Dog: We got a new dog. Her name is Trooper Grace. Trooper is the name she came with...I added Grace because it makes her sound like a girl. She's a GREAT dog. Part Beagle and part Weiner Dog. She's 12.5 lbs. I love her to pieces.

That's it for now......will update more later.

Why I Love This Man

2009-07-10T10:30:00.000-05:00

Kevin Skinner

2009-07-02T09:04:00.001-05:00

MJ

2009-06-29T13:02:00.002-05:00

I did a lot of driving last weekend....which meant a lot of listening to the radio. We heard a LOT of Michael Jackson music due to his passing last week. I was trying to explain to Lizzy how significant his music was when I was a kid because, to Lizzy...he's a singer who has had a long career and turned into a very strange person. When I was a kid..he was not strange...he was COOL. Really cool. I was telling Lizzy how when his music videos came out it was a prime time event. He was handsome, could dance and sing. We didn't yet know about his abusive childhood...and really, for me I was completely out of touch with the "Jackson 5". It was not until I was a teen that I became aware that he'd had a long career. Yes, he turned into a pretty strange, troubled, possibly criminal person. But when you look at the music he turned out over the span of 40 years, you can't help but reminisce a little. Name a MJ song and I could tell you what stage of my life I was in. The video below is the first performance I remember very well of him...it was in 1893 I believe...so that would make me 6. I remember thinking that I wanted to dance like that!!! I used to enjoy dancing (ask Penny) and he was definitely a person who could inspire me to do it.

Eating Out

2009-06-25T10:54:00.004-05:00

For the last several years I've struggled with getting myself into the shape I want to be in. I am not overweight...but I don't want to just let myself go so I'm constantly trying new ways to make myself eat right...exercise etc. I have been "off" real coke for about a month and a half now...with the exception of just a few times of cheating. I'm very proud of myself actually. I think I may have discovered that I enjoy Diet Pepsi better than Diet Coke though...who knew? I can't help but to eat like shit when I eat out....esp in a restaurant. Eating out is a treat for me, so when I sit and look at the menu, I think "what sounds awesome at this moment" not "what is good tasting and good for me". That's what I should be thinking. Last night I went to 810 Zone with a few work colleges and had about 5 (fantastic) hot wings....half of a half pound burger and most of my fries. I was SOOO good, but when I entered the food into my fitday account...I was sad about my lack of control. 100 calories for EACH hot wing! Mmmm they were so good though!

At lunch we're going out to eat, and I'll be out again at dinner time. This is all because there is a person I work with in town and the company pays for everything. I am going to try to restrain myself from over indulgence ...but in all honesty, I can't promise anything.

Updates

2009-06-22T08:43:00.003-05:00

First- the duct tape didn't work. Really, it didn't have a chace to because the tape wouldn't stay on her foot. So- we went to the Dr. and had the wart frozen. I think she's going to need another treatment or two.

We got a dog! Her name is "Trooper Grace".....Trooper was her given name be previous owners...I hate it but she knows it and comes when called. She is a fantastic dog. She is about a year and a half...potty trained and very well tempered. I just love her. She is a mini beagle and weighs in at about 10lbs.

Chris is 9- his birthday was yesterday...and it was a great day. He had two baseball games, they won both and the tournament. It was also fathers day, so his grandmother had a nice birthday/fathers day party at her house. It was a really fun time.

My Duct Tape Experiment

2009-06-05T13:52:00.003-05:00

My daughter Lizzy has a "plantar wart" on her foot. It's right by ...actually almost between her big toe and her 2nd toe on the bottom of her foot. I know two people who have had them removed and both people have described very painful and long healing processes. I was doing some research a few days ago and discovered an alternative method : duct tape

So- we will begin the "duct tape therapy" tomorrow and I will keep you informed on how it's going. It should take a few months, but I'd rather try this and see if it works rather than taking her straight over to the doctor for a painful procedure.

Adjusting

2009-06-04T13:59:00.002-05:00

Adjusting to my new life has been rough. Not only do I not have a husband...my companion and partner, but I no longer have my dogs.

I am very independent. I am enjoying putting together my new home on my terms and doing things my way. I am happy that I now only have to rely on myself to make my life happen the way I want it to. However, I do feel a bit empty inside...and I am missing 3 big parts of my life.

You know, I realize that what is going on is the best thing for me and my family- I do, but all of the change is overwhelming sometimes. In the last 2 months I've lost my grandmother, my husband and my dogs.

Ok, this whole post cannot be depressing. Let's see.... There is a chance that a new K-9 friend will be coming to live with us. She is Chris' dog (at his dads). She is a German Shepherd named Sammie and she is 5 years old. I have really enjoyed the peace and quiet of not having a dog around but I reeeeaaaaally miss it. Sounds silly huh? Most people who have owned a dog would understand where I'm coming from.

Birthday Flowers

2009-06-03T16:32:00.003-05:00

My sister Penny got me a really beautiful bouquet of flowers for my birthday. Then, Jewel and Aaron both bought me separate dozens of yellow roses (24 total)...so they combined all 3 bouquets and look at how it turned out!!! I LOVE them!

Don't ever let a girl tell you she doesn't like flowers- she's lying. ALL GIRLS LOVE FLOWERS!

My Home

2009-06-02T14:38:00.012-05:00

More to come...

32

2009-06-02T08:47:00.001-05:00

I turned 32 yesterday

It's all good

My Dream

2009-05-22T11:16:00.002-05:00

My Grandmother came to me in a dream. This morning (early...about 5:30am) I was sleeping soundly dreaming away. I was in my backyard...I know it was my home, but of course it looked a little different. Anyway, I was in the middle of my dream when I looked over and grandma was sitting with her feet up kind of reclining on the deck. It as a covered deck (hense the same but different). I went over and sat down next to her and she reached out her hand and I held her hand for a long time....until something in my dream distracted me and I moved on. She didn't say anything and she was a younger version of herself. Maybe even younger than she was when I was born. She looked like she did in pictures when she was younger.

I don't think it was random...I think she came to me....as her younger self from heaven. I think she came because she knows I've been thinking about her a lot and she wanted to let me know she's happy.

Funny thing is...I can't get myself together this today. I cried telling Lizzy about it this morning and I cried telling a co-worker about it. The whole thing has shaken me up a little.

Once Again

2009-05-21T09:24:00.002-05:00

New weight loss goals:

No Soda
No Snacking
No Night Eating

I'm starting today and going to see how long I can do it. I seriously need to do something....I'm starting to bulge out of my clothes (all of my pants are too tight), I don't like being photographed and I don't want to wear short sleeve/sleeveless shirts anymore because my arms have put on weight and have cellulite on them (I didn't know that was possible). It's time to do something drastic...I have to make a change.

It'll be tough this weekend to be perfect because we'll be out of town living out of a hotel, but I'm going to try very hard to do the best I can.

Whats Up With Me?

2009-05-20T14:00:00.002-05:00

I know I know...I have not posted an actual blog in a while. I guess I just go through "dry spells" with blogging. I'm not a natural writer like my sister Penny, so unless I feel like I have something to say..which is not often, I just don't blog.

Let's see.... I've lived in my new house for almost 2 weeks. I'm still not totally unpacked. In fact, my bedroom looks pathetic. I have a mattress and box springs on the floor- no frame. I don't have a dresser, so my clothes are in boxes. I DO have my shoe racks..(yes, racks) up with shoes on them. The house is coming together....I'll post pics next week sometime. It is not and will not be perfect for a while...but it took all of the money I had to get into my house, and all I care about right now is building my savings back up. That is VERY important to me. I want to have 2 months of expenses put away before I buy anything for my house.

I am still thinking about my grandmother. It's strange that she is not alive anymore. I think about the last few weeks with her frequently. Talking with her....washing her hair...feeding her. I had my hand on the pulse in her neck only 45 minutes before she died...just because I was sleepy and it was a way for me to rest but know she was still with us. She died about 45 minutes after I rolled over and drifted off to sleep (in a chair in her hospital room). My mom was the only one awake and the time....I'm really glad she got to be with her mom alone when it happened. I just can't believe she's gone.

I miss my dogs....a lot. My house is so quiet now. It's actually really nice, but the few times I've seen them since I moved out my heart broke.

My mother recently gave me a stack of items she's kept from my childhood...and my baby book. I have REALLY enjoyed looking at and sharing the memories with my kids. All 3 kids have taken their time looking through my baby book very carefully and reading everything that was written. Thanks Mom...it's awesome that you kept that stuff.

Kids get out of school next week- Wednesday to be exact. I know they are really looking forward to it and so am I. I love summer because when I get up in the morning I'm only responsible for myself and don't have any stops on the way to work. It's awesome. Oh- and I'll be going to Vegas again this summer. That will be a lot of fun. I'll get to see my little sister- and all of the Vegas family. I always have a great time when I go out there. I plan on doing a lot of walking and working out before I go! I hate going down there and being the chubby girl!!!

NIN and Janes Addiction is next week! I'm really excited to see them both again. I also bought JD and I tickets to see Dave Matthews Band in September at the Sprint Center. It's her 18th birthday present. That will be really fun.

This Is Why My Kids Don't Have Internet In Their Bedrooms

2009-05-15T15:27:00.001-05:00

....and by the way, this Dad rocks (except the GD bombs)

He Should Have Won

2009-05-15T08:49:00.001-05:00

...and I'm not watching the finale! (arms crossed with mean look on my face)

I am a homeowner!

2009-05-09T21:13:00.001-05:00

I own a home. Let me repeat...I ..Me...Moi... own a home.

Can you tell I'm excited?

Pics soon!

Yipppppppe!

2009-05-06T14:13:00.000-05:00

As of 9am tomorrow ...I will officially be a homeowner!

One Republic “Apologize”

2009-05-06T08:56:00.001-05:00

This is a pretty annoying song...but these kids are SO cute to watch singing it.

Lucky Bitch

2009-05-04T16:21:00.001-05:00

Trent Reznor is engaged....

Weekend Baseball Pictures

2009-05-04T09:08:00.014-05:00

Saturday

Chris catching....

... Chris on 1st base...

Chris & Liz...really not wating to take a pic together...

....all the games are over for the day

Sunday

Chris up to bat...

...Hanging in the dugout...

...after the Tournament was won...with this trophy...

....Team Picture!!!

What a Great Weekend

2009-05-03T21:49:00.003-05:00

This is the first weekend in a long time that I was able to relax and do things I wanted to do...and I really took advantage of it.

Saturday: 10am game - Mac-N-Seitz shut out the team they played. Went to lunch at Chillis (yum!) and back to the ballpark for a 2pm game- another shut out. Saturday night Lizzy and I went to see "Bride Wars" at the local dollar theater ...actually, the tix are $2.50. We were able to see the movie, get popcorn and a drink all for under $10.00. That rocks!

Sunday: 8am game- another shut out...go team! Went home until the next game at noon...I don't remember the score, but I think the boys only allowed 1 run for the team they were playing. The championship game was at 1:15...and they were playing a team that they have played several times. They are a GREAT team and always bring the competition. The boys WON the championship game with a score of 4-3. It was a nail biter- and SO fun!
After we got home from the game; Chris, Lizzy and I took Sophie for a walk to the park. We ate the pork roast that I started cooking first thing this morning (it was wonderful). Then, Chris and I packed his bedroom...yay!...progress!

Now- 2 kids in bed....one to go (but she's a teenager so I won't be tucking her in..haha). I am actually able to RELAX. I've needed this.

Tomorrow- I will upload pictures from the games.

Put Me In Coach

2009-04-28T09:57:00.003-05:00

Ok so I'm not ready to play, but I'm ready to watch. I LOVE watching my son (and his team) play baseball. This is something I've learned over the last few years. I've never been a baseball fan per-se....until Chris got involved.

Sadly, I've had to miss the last 2 tournaments to deal with the death of my grandmother and everything that came with it. I think they are going to play this weekend...and I'm ready to go watch!

Tough Times

2009-04-23T09:47:00.002-05:00

The last several weeks have been tough. I have had four major things on my mind. I'm starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel....but it's dim.

With the passing of my grandmother I've been thinking a lot about my life. I'm very happy with my life and have a wonderful family. This has proven more than ever that our family is strong. Her memorial is this Sunday. I'm looking forward to once again seeing all of my family together again. Oh, and my little sis is coming into town YaY!

I don't think I'm going to make my April 30th closing date on the house. This makes me VERY sad. I will get the house...the question is when?

Jewel is going to have to repeat 12th grade. Too many absences and too much missed homework. I'm sad about it but REALLY happy that she's made the decision to go back instead of drop out.

Jeff and I are filing for a legal separation. It's just not working out. I'm buying the house on my own and moving alone. It sucks and I'm sad. I never wanted it to work out this way.

Grandma

2009-04-19T14:20:00.004-05:00

Peace Be With You

Betty Jewell Records

June 25, 1933 - April 18, 2009

Pig -DMB

2009-04-07T14:05:00.002-05:00

Isnt it strange

How we move our lives for another day

Like skipping a beat

What if a great wave should

Wash us all away

Just thinking out loud

Dont mean to dwell on this dying thing

But looking at blood

Its alive right now

Deep and sweet within

Pouring through our veins

Intoxicate moving wine to tears

Drinking it deep

Then an evening spent dancing

Its you and me

This love will open our world

From the dark side you can see a glow

Of something bright

Theres much more than we see here

Dont burn the day away

Is this not enough

The blessed sip of life

Is it not enough

Staring down at the ground

Oh then complain and pray

More from above

Greedy little pig

Stop just watch your world trickle away

Oh its your problem now

Itll all be dead and gone in

A few short years

Just love will open our eyes

Just love will put the hope back in our minds

Much more than we could ever know

Dont burn the day away

Come sister

My brother

Shake up your bones shake up your feet

Im saying open up

And let the rain come pouring in

Wash out this tired notion

That the best is yet to come

But while youre dancing on the ground

Dont think of when you're gone

Love! love! - what more is there?

We need the light of love in here

Dont beat your head

Dry your eyes

Let the love in there

There are bad times

But thats ok

Just look for love in it

Dont burn the day away

Look

Here are we

On this starry night staring into space

And I must sayI feel as small as dust

Lying down here

What point could there be troubling

Head down wondering what will

Become of me

Why concern we cannot see

But no reason to abandon it

Time is short but thats all right

Maybe Ill go out in the middle of the night

Take your hands from your eyes, my love

Everything must come to an end sometime

Dont burn the day away

Come sister

My brother

Shake up your bones shake up your feet

Im saying open up

And let the rain come flooding in

Wash out this tired notion

That the best is yet to come

But while youre dancing on the ground

Dont think of when youre gone

Love! love! - what more is there?

We need the light of love in here

Dont beat your head

Dry your eyes

Let the love in there

There are bad times

But thats ok

Just look for love in it

This Explains It All

2009-04-06T09:47:00.001-05:00

Weekend Baseball

2009-04-06T08:57:00.004-05:00

This weekend was a baseball tournament in Liberty, MO. Christopher plays for the Mac-N-Seitz Indians 8&U team and they were on schedule.

Friday was the 1st game at 7:45. It was an easy win for the boys, and everyone went home happy.

Saturday it was a bit chilly when they played at 2:30. They played a very good team ...and it was a close game but again, they won.

Sunday we knew that it was going to be cold, but no one could have prepared us for how cold and miserable it actually was. We arrived at 10:30am and it was raining, windy and about 40 degrees. Within 5 minutes everyone was soaked and freezing. The boys played hard and won their first of 2 games that day. The championship game was next. It was so cold that every other team playing in the tournament called their games and left. The rain kept coming down and they kept playing. Some of the moms and I were covering the boys in blankets in the dugout...even though they were wet blankets it was better than nothing. The boys were shivering so badly. The game should have been called....but they wanted to play, so they played. In the end, they lost the championship game by one run. It was a sad loss after playing so hard in such harsh conditions. I am really proud of the boys...all of them. They demonstrated such a huge amount of dedication and teamwork.

Step #1

2009-04-01T10:27:00.001-05:00

...my offer was countered and I accepted the counter offer! Now it's time for inspections, appraisal etc...

I'm really excited :)

Scary

2009-03-31T09:10:00.001-05:00

I'm making an offer on a house today....eeek!

The loves of my life

2009-03-30T13:32:00.002-05:00

Your Song

2009-03-30T13:31:00.002-05:00

You might have to close your eyes to enjoy this one....it's an old and funny video but is my favorite Elton John song. Simple and sweet.

Singin In The Rain

2009-03-22T19:33:00.003-05:00

This is my favorite movie...

Hmmm

2009-03-19T08:40:00.002-05:00

I am having my morning peanut butter toast and coffee...it's about 8:45. I'm in no rush because I'm back to working full time. 8am-5pm once again. I started my new schedule yesterday.

Dusty is here and other than the fact that I think she's bored ....we're having a great time! I'm not in a financial position to go out and entertain her much, so we're doing a lot of sitting around the house! I think she's enjoying her visit...but misses her husband. My whole family is coming over on Friday for a BBQ. I'm really looking forward to seeing my baby niece and my brother and sister in law. I don't get to see them much because they live about an hour outside of town. I hear that they are thinking about moving back though...which makes me very happy.

I chose a house! I haven't even made an offer yet, so I don't want to talk too much about it (jinx)...but it's in Overland Park, 3 beds (4 really with the finished room in the basement), 1 bath beautiful and updated. It's move in ready- so no work for me to do. That is not something I expected to happen. I'm soooo excited!

I think I'll be moving within 5 weeks. I have a lot of packing and organizing to do before then. In a way I love moving because it's a new start. I've done a lot of moving in my life...I am ready to settle down and live somewhere for at least 10 years. I'm so excited to buy a home and get settled. I keep finding myself looking on craigslist for household things I'll need....furniture and things like that. It's all so exciting!

Vacation?

2009-03-12T16:17:00.002-05:00

About a month ago...I took of Friday, March 13th & Monday, March 16th. I did this because the 13th is the start of Spring Break for my kids and I thought it'd be fun to spend a long weekend with them!

Turns out...my weekend filled up fast! I'm going to dog sit for my best friend in Lee's Summit this weekend, then my baby sister might be coming to visit from Vegas starting Sunday. Yeah!!!! I'm so excited for her to come (maybe!). I think it'll be fun to dog sit this weekend....Dino and Scooby (my dog nephews) are soooo mellow. They are 9 and 10 years old, so they are very low maintenence. Basically, I'll be chillin at Lori's house all weekend with Lizzy.

I'm *this close* to getting approved for my home loan!!! I'm so excited! I think I'll be house hunting (and most likely making an offer on one) next weekend! I'm chomping at the bit to start brainstorming and buying decor.....but I need to hold off until I know what space I'm going to be fixing up. I'm so excited to own a home. I'll feel like a "real adult" haha.

Life Changing

2009-03-09T08:54:00.003-05:00

Friday it was confirmed....more responsibility at work ....going back to full time and a very nice raise :) I'm really happy and proud of myself. Hard work and loyalty pays off.

I don't want to talk too much about it though since the country is in a recession...and there are people suffering.

I have been lightly house hunting...the one I really liked is "pending" currently so it's all but lost to me. Lizzy and I drove around scouting last night. We saw 4 houses (from the outside) and I'd like to see the inside of all 4. One is out of my price range...but I'm going to watch and see if the price reduces.

All good things!

I leave you with Pink Floyd 1980 "Mother" Live....I really wish I could have gone to this concert..but I was 3.

25 Things I Hate About Facebook

2009-03-05T09:21:00.001-06:00

Grandma Loves Heavy Metal

2009-03-03T08:52:00.000-06:00

Good Things

2009-03-01T20:36:00.007-06:00

It's been a while since I've blogged. I guess I'm not inspired to...even though there is TONS of interesting things going on in my life.

My number one topic to discuss is that I am FINALLY going to but a home! It's actually going to happen this time. I'm waiting to hear word on what my income is actually going to be (more on that later) so I can get pre-approved for a loan...then it's ON. I'm trying very hard not to look at homes too much because when it's actually time to choose...the ones I'm looking at now might not even be on the market anymore. It's tough...let me tell you. I'm constantly looking online at what's available. Right now is the best time to buy. Between the fact that the market is down so much (bad for sellers...but great for buyers) and the $8,000 tax credit I'll recieve- how can I not buy? I'm soooooooo excited.

I'm going back to work full time. I have an opportunity to take on more responsibility (that means more $$), plus I really need to be back full time anyway. I have been working 30 hours per week for over a year now and although I like it, I have a "black part-time cloud" hanging over my head all the time at work. I've realized that I'll never achieve my goals professionally if I continue to work pt because I'm not looked at as an equal teammate at the office. It's going to be an adjustment staying at work until 5 every day, but more money will be worth it!!!

I'm planning a baby shower for my best friend Lori. I'm so excited that she is going to be a Mom in April. Her shower is March 28th. Penny is helping me and I think we've come up with some really fun activities and great food. I like planning events. I really thought I wanted to be a wedding planner....but when things started to look good for me at my current job-that thought went away quickly, so I guess it was not my calling after all. You never know though. I've had a lot of fun planning this baby shower- designing the invitations, note cards for activities etc... it give me a change to have some creative input.

Overall life is going pretty well. Although there is something that is causing me some heart ache right now, something I'm very confused about....but to be honest, I don't want to blog about it. Not now anyway. I'm a strong person though, and I have proven to myself over and over that I'm strong enough to handle anything that comes my way and this situation is no different. Just send good prayers and thoughts my way. I have a positive outlook.

Hahaha TeeHee

2009-02-16T13:17:00.001-06:00

She's so beautiful...

2009-02-16T12:56:00.001-06:00

G. Love & Special Sauce

2009-02-15T18:14:00.005-06:00

Jeff and I went to see G. Love & Special Sauce on Thursday, the 12th. I bought the tickets for his birthday present in December. If you are not familiar with G. Love..here is a YouTube clip:

It was a fantastic show...he stopped in KC first on the new tour. Here are the pictures I took at the show:

Funnies

2009-02-10T13:26:00.003-06:00

My TV Watching Dog

2009-02-10T13:16:00.003-06:00

Sophie sat and watched about 1/2 an hour of the dog show with us last night. It was so funny. Most dogs will notice other dogs on tv ...come over and sniff the tv or whatever and then lose interest. Sophie walked up to the tv and licked it...then I made her sit down, and she sat there watching intently until the next commercial break. When the show started again, she climbed up on the bed with me and watched again....without moving until the next commercial break again. I've never seen a dog with such a long attention span!

LeRoi Moore forgotten by Grammys

2009-02-09T13:49:00.002-06:00

During the Grammys last night I noticed that they left LeRoi Moore of the "RIP" Montage that they do every year. I even said something to Lizzy. Here is an article on the subject I found on teh webstie antsmarching.org. I wanted to bring more attention to the subject...so here is the article.

LeRoi Moore (1961-2008), 12 time nominated and 1 time Grammy winner, was shockingly forgotten by the Grammy’s. Lifetime musician, influential jazz saxophonist and one of the founding members of the Dave Matthews Band was left out of the Grammy’s annual Memorial Tribute. The Tribute is a video montage put together by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences honoring those in the music business that have passed in the last year. A number of known (and not-so-known) artists (and a photographer) were honored in the video but LeRoi was missed (or skipped, we aren’t sure.) While we are disappointed and saddened that the Grammys and CBS did not give LeRoi the tribute he deserves, they do not properly represent the music industry’s and the many billions of music lovers feelings. Although the so called National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences did not honor him, we at AntsMarching.org will continue to pay tribute to his contributions. If you haven’t already checked it out, or you want to revisit, here is an amazing medley of some of LeRoi's top moments with Dave Matthews Band (featured in Podcast #15) and a tribute article titled Remembering LeRoi (both put together by AntsMarching.org's own Jake).

Doggie Pedicure

2009-02-08T18:50:00.003-06:00

For the first time today I used a dremel tool to trim my dogs nails. I've been leading up to this for several weeks now. We bought the dremel about a month ago, and almost every day I've been getting it out and doing various things to get them used to the sound and feel. The first week I just brought it out and said things like "What's this?" in a high pitched voice and when they came over to check it out I'd give them a treat. The next week I started turning it on low- so they could get used to the sound. Every time they would come over to sniff at it, I'd give them a treat and tons of praise. The 3rd week I had them sit...and give me a paw and then I'd turn the dremel on and touch a nail with it for a very short amt of time...once they let me do that they got a treat. Tonight...for the first time I acutally used it on more than one nail for each dog. Sumo got both front feet done and Sophie got one foot done and part of the second. Lot's of treats were involved in this!!!

I don't want to push past their patience, because I could ruin all of the work I've done so far. The worst thing that could happen is for me to hurt them or freak them out and then they'll never let it happen again. I'm really happy that my patience has paid off and we've gotten this far with it. I want my puppies to have beautiful feet!

It's never going to happen....

2009-02-03T09:43:00.003-06:00

Every time I think we are ready to buy a home I get woken up to reality and realize we're not. This happened again last night. I'm 31 years old...Jeff is 46...we SHOULD own a home. We make enough money to own a home...what is the major malfunction?? I just feel like we suck at life right now. I get ideas about buying into my head and run with it...then when I realize how much money we need...I get deflated. Credit is not an issue...debt is not an issue...employment is not an issue...it's having enough money to put down on the damn thing!

I'm having a pity party today....so feel free to join me if you have some pity of your own.

25 Random Things About Me...the expanded version

2009-01-30T10:36:00.004-06:00

I'm taking the lead from my little sister who did this on her blog...here is the "expanded" version of the Facebook version.

1. I love to paint. I have been drawing as long as I can remember...and started to paint in high school. It's soothing to me.

2. I'm somewhat fashion conscious. I love clothes- and am really frugal so I like to find "deals" anywhere from the thrift store to the mall.

3. I have had many adventures in my life that if I told you, you might not believe me. From skipping school and running around the strip & getting of the rooftops of hotel/casinos in Las Vegas (in grade school)....to riding in the tourbus with Fishbone from KC to Omaha...and going to a party with 311 in Omaha...just to name a few.

4. I love sunbaithing but gave it up when I turned 30. I'm scared of skin cancer..and want to prevent wrinkles!!

5. I am extremely sensitive...if someone says something that hurts my feelings, I'll dwell on it all day. I can't help it.

6. I love decorating my home...in fact, I used to want to go into interior design. Once again, my frugal ways come into play- so it's a work in progress!

7. I have a very particular style. I'm picky about how I dress and the way I want things to look around me (that I have control over).

8. I love my kids in a very deep, connected way. I love being a mother....I really enjoy being around my kids...I've never been one of those "stressed out" mothers who just wants to get away from her kids. They are everything.

9. I am a natural leader and make most major decisions in my life on my own. I've been that way since I was about 15-16.

10. I have met Trent Reznor. I was 17..at a concert in Topeka. That was also the night that 3 parts of my cornea flaked off...VERY painful...the next morning I went to the Dr. and ended up wearing an eye patch for 3 days. So when I met Trent Reznor I had a big fat swollen eye!

11. I don't eat dairy. I quit 2 years ago after a Dr. advised me to....now, I don't even crave it. I do have to take Calcium suppliments.

12. Shawshank Redemption is one of my favorite movies. I love it when it comes on tv on the weekends.

13. I took my sister to see LL Cool J in concert about 10 years ago....it was awesome. We saw him at the Beaumont Club in Westport. We had a GREAT view...it really was a childhood dream come true.

14. I've been to Alaska. I went with a dim wit ex boyfriend....but he's not even part of my memory of the trip. It is so beautiful....

15. I love to cook. I always have. One day I want to take a cooking course or two.

16. Quitting smoking 1 year ago after smoking for 16 years the best thing I've ever done for myself. It was really hard....and it's still hard, but I don't want to take anymore years off of my life by doing something I can control.

17. I like serious movies the best. I like to "think" when I watch movies.

18. I'm a neat freak about my office...I clean off my desk every day before I leave work. I've always been that way since the first time I had my own office. I guess I like to come in to work with a clean desk and a clean slate each day.

19. I miss having long hair and am growing it back. I just don't feel like myself with shorter hair.

20. I've learned to like onions....but not raw. I cook with them every week!

21. I love shoes and have about 30 pairs of high heels. Total I probably have about 50 pairs of shoes including boots, flip flops and misc. Here's the deal though...I did not pay more than $20 for most of them!

22. I'm extremely frugal. I love to bargin shop- and I can make a little money STRETCH.....you'd never know that most of my wordrobe comes from a thrift store!

23. My kids help me cook almost every night....I want them to know how to cook when they are adults! It's a life skill that I think is very important. I tell my son that chicks dig it when a man can cook!

24. I broke my back when I was 13 and have 2 12" titanium rods in my back. My lifestyle changed considerably to accomodate it but I'm used to it ...it's been 18 years.

25. I like watching football. Especially the Chiefs. I don't have a favorite player....but it's fun to cheer for the home town team.

**BONUS FACTS**

26. I use a Franklin Planner at work...I have for about 8 years. It keeps me organized. Like they say...it takes 21 days to make a habit...and this is one of mine. (I wish more people would use them)

27. I LOVE to see live music...here are a few artists I've seen in concert.. Nine Inch Nails (2), Dave Matthews Band (5), Tool (7), 311 (4), Pearl Jam, LL Cool J, Beasite Boys, John Mayer (4), Ben Folds (2), Ozzy Ozbourne, Fishbone, NKOTB (haha), Natasha Beddingfield, Lady GaGa, Maroon 5, Cyprus Hill, Snoop Dogg, Flaming Lips, Butthole Surfers, The Cure, Goo Goo Dolls, Counting Crows, G Love and Special Sauce.....ok that's all I can think of right now.

28. I'm freaking BLIND...I wear contacts or glasses and could not leave my house if for some reason I didn't have either.

My First Haircut

2009-01-29T09:08:00.002-06:00

I cut my sons hair yesterday. Since I spend $15-$20 everytime I get it cut I decided to go buy some clippers and give it a try...why not? I've seen it done ten thousand times....I can do it...lot's of mothers do. The clippers I bought had an instructional DVD too. I'm quite proud of my first haircut...it looks pretty good! 1 small "oops" over an ear but nothing that's too noticable.

Doing well...

2009-01-28T09:37:00.000-06:00

I am having a successful "no coke" week so far. It's been tough. I think my husband is trying to sabotage me....no seriously, he "cheated" yesterday- and so he was trying to get me on the cheating bandwagon! He kept bringing it up in front of me...how great it would be to have a coke...he might go get one etc... I held strong (no thanks to him). You'd think we were talking about cigarettes here! If I can quit smoking then I can definately go a week w/o coke.

NO COKE

2009-01-26T11:51:00.003-06:00

I am hopelessly addicted to Coke....Coca Cola that is. Trust me if it were the other kind I would't be struggling with my weight! Anyway, there is not many things that feels and tastes better in my mouth. I crave Coke...everyday. I drink 1 Coke a day during the week and sometimes more than one on weekend days. I even keep Coke Zero at my office because it's the 0 calorie kind. That gives me an excuse to have a regular Coke at night....because I didn't have any calories with the one I had earlier in the day. It's sickening.

No Coke this week. In fact, I'm going to try really hard to drink nothing but water and coffee (in the morning).

Help hold me accountable!

NIN

2009-01-24T22:29:00.003-06:00

Yep...I know.

The Great TV Find

2009-01-24T20:52:00.003-06:00

This morning my husband got a notion to clean our bedroom. Not just pick up dirty socks or clean off his dresser...he decided to move the bed, move everything out of the "womb" (I'll explain that in a minute) vacuum and even use the carpet cleaner on the carpet (which he's never done btw).

*Womb explanation*

Our bedroom is a finished attic made up of two rooms. It's really cool actually. The main room has a hardwood floor, and it has our dressers, a kennel, my dressing table and 2 open closets. The smaller room- which is actually a walk in closet that never got finished is what we call the "womb" ...because it's small and cosy. Instead of the bedroom, it's the bedwomb...ok corny I know. Anyway, it's big enough for our king sized bed, and tv and tv stand...Sophie's homemade dog bed and 2 bed side tables.

Ok, back to the story. In the course of him moving out the furniture...he pulled out the cable cord from the back of the 19" tv. Not just the cord but the whole piece that attaches to the cord came out of the tv. So my husband is beside himself because he has this nasty habit of watching tv every night before he goes to sleep (I hate it). Never in my life until I married him have I had a tv in my bedroom and frankly, I could do without it. But he can't. So he informs me that he's been saving his "allowance" and wants to go replace the tv asap. Our bill account is not being touched for anything but necessities these days because we are saving every extra penny. I'll tell you why in a few weeks :) He knew, that I didn't care enough to authorize using the bill account, so he had to pay for a new tv with his own money. Well being the cheap bastards we are....(and I love him for this btw)...he wants to get a 19" $120 special. Not Plasma, not LCD Flat bla bla bla. If/When we make that transition....it'll go in the living room anyway.

Our first stop was Best Buy. There were only 3 "old style" tv's being sold there and the sales lady informed us that they are going all flat soon and that's all they have left. Really? Are we that behind the times?? We decided to go to Wal-Mart next because I'm always seeing commercials about their electronics dept. Wal-Mart had 4 choices on "old style" tv's and TONS of flats. Nothing really exciting though so we decide to go to Nebraska Furniture Mart. Let me just say what a waste of gas that was. They had ZERO. I was really feeling like a dork by that time...so we left there and I said "honey, why don't we go home and you look on craigslist?" . He did and guess what he found? A 32" SONY for $100. Yep, this tv is freaking huge. We decided to put it in the living room....and take our old living room tv which is 27" and put it in our bedroom.

I'm pretty happy with the outcome of our day, although we could have saved some gas.

I'm so tired

2009-01-23T09:45:00.004-06:00

My left hip has been hurting lately. I think it's because I've been working out almost every day for a month....nothing major but stepping, jogging etc... Anyway, yesterday it was constant pain all day...into the night. When I went to bed at about 11 I decided to take an 800mg Lortab..which is a GOOD pain killer. I rested in bed for about 20 min. slowly drifting off into a comfortable sleep...my hip still hurt but the medicine took the edge off.

I woke up at 2am feeling very "high"...(which wasn't that bad!) and loopy...got up and got a drink, was a chatterbox with Jeff for about 1/2 an hour...and even took the dogs out to pee. My hip DID NOT hurt at all!! The downside is....narcotic drugs have a terrible side effect with me..they make me ITCH terribly. I'm talking all over..head to toe junkie itching. So- I spent from 2:30am to about 4am lying in bed obsessively scratching all over my body and getting NO sleep.

I am really really tired today- I'm no good on minimal sleep.

Don't Drink The Water

2009-01-21T09:58:00.002-06:00

This song is about the European slaughter of Native Americans, as the colonization of North America caused the near-extinction of the Native American population.

It's an older song, but still one of my favorite DMB songs....and I just felt like posting it.

Spread My Wings

2009-01-19T11:01:00.000-06:00

HA...and this one

Two Occasions

2009-01-19T10:56:00.002-06:00

This song brings back a lot of memories- Penny, you know what I mean. We were just kids listening to this song.

Hand Cramps!!!

2009-01-18T10:36:00.006-06:00

Yesterday I spent 7 hours painting a "mural" on the wall of my best friends nursery. She is having a little boy in April. Here are some pictures of me in action.

And the final product:

Sad....

2009-01-16T13:32:00.002-06:00

.....damn, no call from the Oprah show. Well, here's hoping I get through on January 21st!

Could it be?

2009-01-15T10:04:00.003-06:00

A LOT of people I know are not fans of Oprah Winfrey...so if you are one of them just go ahead and skip this post for today.

For everyone else...I have butterflies!! It's always been a dream of mine to attend a taping of an Oprah Winfrey Show. I have been a fan of hers since I was a kid. No- I don't think she's perfect.....I wouldn't drink the "purple kool-aid" if she asked me to....but...I do subscribe to "O" Magazine...my dog Sophie is named after her cocker spaniel Sophie that recently died and I've been watching her show since I was a kid.

Anyway, I have this vision of flying to Chicago (by myself or not), staying in a hotel close to HARPO studio....and getting to go to a taping of the show...and I *might* get that chance. I was just on the website checking the seating availability (which by the way there are NEVER any available seats) and to my amazement there were "last minute seating" available for Jan. 28, 29 and 30th. So- I had to send a request..which is basically filling out a form with contact information and hitting send. These tickets are in so high demand that I'm almost positive I won't be getting a call...but hey- you never know! You better believe I'd drain my (personal) savings to hop a flight to Chicago for a chance to go.

Loving my dogs....

2009-01-13T08:55:00.003-06:00

Sophie & Sumo 1-11-09

....is work sometimes! OK, of course it's not actually "work" to love my dogs...but let's just say they always keep me on my feet! (so to speak)

Yesterday I came home from work and didn't change into comfy clothes like I normally do. I went to pick up the kids at 3 and when I we got home....our normal routine commenced which is taking out the dogs to pee. I always have one of the kids take out Sumo- although he's the biggest and strongest, he's the calmest and less likely to do something crazy outside (like jump the fence and run away). So I get Sophie...don't even think to put on her prong collar (power steering we like to call it) and head outside. Keep in mind I'm still in my work clothes which is: cute top/dress, leggings and black wedge boots that come up to my knees. Sophie gets fixated on something and begins pulling me ...hard. This is nothing new to me as she is a master at this game- but I usually win. Not this time. Whatever it was she was fixated on she REALLY wanted it because she pulled harder than ever....and well I've got zero leverage or balance due to my dumb ass wearing wedge boots. So...I use all my might to get her under control but ...it's too late....she's got the upper hand. I make a decision- I can't let her leash go because she WILL jump the fence and I'm definitely in no position (or outfit) to go chasing after her....so ....I sacrifice myself and allow her to pull me to the ground. So I hit the ground and she promptly tramples me.

Now, she has no idea that a) she's hurt me b) she's still hurting me by pawing me in the face or c) I'm mad as hell. Chris and Lizzy were both shocked at the scene and rushed over saying "Mom are you ok?" I was ok....my hands were scraped, my face hurt a tiny bit (from the trampling) and my arms were a bit red (not sure if that was the trampling or the fall) ....oh and my boots - RUINED....but other than a bruised mood..I was fine. I only suffered with a sore neck and back for a while last night; I think I'm fine today...but I did learn a lesson: Sophie= prong collar & sensible shoes!!!!!!!

Gran Torino

2009-01-12T09:56:00.002-06:00

Go see this movie.....it's very good.

Go me...Go me...Uh hu...Uh hu...

2009-01-08T08:58:00.002-06:00

140lbs.!!!

I know...I rock!

Magic formula:

1) I've been staying in at work and eating Weight Watchers meals for lunch.

2) I've been working out at least 30 min. a day.

3) I have not been eating at night MOST nights.

Looks like it's working...yeah!

I DID IT!

2009-01-06T13:51:00.003-06:00

1 Year ago today I quit smoking

I'm a NON-SMOKER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Wii Fit!

2009-01-02T08:54:00.002-06:00

My girls' grandmother Alice bought us a Wii for a family gift this Christmas. I've been wanting a Wii Fit also- so we bought one wrapped it and added it to the family gift to be opened on Christmas day.

I just want to take a minute to rave about the Wii Fit. Some of the activities are very simple and some are more difficult, but all are fun and all target spacific areas of fitness. There are 4 categories: Balance Games, Aerobics, Stregnth Training and Yoga. Since Christmas day I have done a minimum of 30 mintues and all 4 categories every day. Now I'm not saying that I will continue to do the Wii Fit every day for the rest of my life...but I'm on quite a streak and do not plan to stop anytime soon.

My favorite activities are: Step, Boxing, Yoga and the Stregnth Training activities. If you have a Wii already, for the price of 2 games you can buy the Wii Fit....I'd say it's definately worth the investment.

My kids have really enjoyed playing Wii and Wii Fit also. It's different than just sitting around playing video games. You are up being active- playing tennis or bowling...even golf is fun. We have been playing a lot of games of bowling with the kids- its' really fun! (And better than sitting down stairing at the tv)

Call me a geek all day...I don't care. I'm hooked on Wii Fit.

One more thing....

2008-12-30T12:30:00.003-06:00

Go see MARLEY & ME!

We went to see it on Saturday evening...and it's a wonderful, touching movie. Below is a picture of the real Marley taken off of the cover of the book the movie was based on called "Marley & Me" by John Grogan.

2009 Goals

2008-12-30T10:39:00.002-06:00

After reading my sister Dusty's 2009 goals it inspired me to write some of my own.

Lose 9 lbs. by the time Lori gives birth! (April)
Continue to pay off debt- Debt free by Jan. 2010 would be wonderful
Continue financial dicipline
Drink more water
Drink LESS coke
Work out 5 days / week...Wii Fit or Gym
Keep experimenting with cooking and try new things

We'll call this the "short list"

Christmas

2008-12-30T08:42:00.004-06:00

Christmas Eve: Luckily, we finished our shopping BEFORE Christmas Eve, so we did not have to venture out into the wild to get last minute gifts. We had a nice day of the girls begging to open "just one gift!!"....(Chris at his dads). Penny, the boys, my girls and I visited my grandmother in Ottowa, KS. We played cards and ate together...it was really nice to see her and spend some quality time.

At 5pm we attended the Christmas Eve service at our church. It was nice to see everyone again. I've always enjoyed the feeling of praying in church....there is something about it that makes me feel more in touch with God. After church we TRIED to run by the grocery store...but both Price Chopper and Hy-Vee were closed! Note to self: don't forget the potatoes next time...and don't ever think you're going grocery shopping on Christmas Eve. So- we went home and Jeff lit the grill. After letting it heat up for what seemed like an eternity I threw on the KC Strips that I had been marinating for almost 10 hours (Mmmmmmm!) I'm telling you....those were some GOOD steaks! Here is what I marinated them in:

Kosher Salt & Pepper
Garlic Powder
Teriaki Sauce
Hot Sauce
SMALL amt of A1

I like the taste of spicy meat....if you do too...this is a great steak marinade. After dinner, everyone opened one gift and the "out of town" presents. The girls loved their gifts- Jeff was very happy with his DICKS gift card (meant for new running shoes) and I was THRILLED to open my Garmin GPS. I've only been singing "Garmin dot com Garmin dot com" for about two years now. Luckily, Jeff revealed he got a good deal on it at DICKS...so I was relieved that he did not pay retail.

Christmas morning we slept in until about 10am. We woke up and had doughnuts (dont tell my diet). It was an unusual Christmas morning because we would usually wake up and immediately open gifts, but this year we decided to wait until Chris got home. At 11:30, Jeff and I went to get Chris from his Dad, and spent about 1/2 an hour with that side of the family in NKC. It was a nice time. We finally got home around 1:30 and opened our gifts from eachother. I LOVE watching the kids open gifts. We do not spend a ton of money, but we DO put a lot of thought into what we buy them. We got Jewel a nice ring from Kay Jewelers. It brought tears to her eyes when she opened it...that of course made me tear up as well. Lizzy got lots of reading material (of course) and a nice docking station for her IPod. Chris' big gift was new tools. He asked for them...and we got him a bunch of tools and a tool box which he is calling his "baby".

After opening gifts we relaxed (and cleaned up the mess) for a while. At about 4pm JD picked up my mother...and everyone in the family followed in the next hour or so. We had my brother Wayne, his wife and baby, Ruby (Jeff's mom), my mom, Penny, Kitch and the boys and our family.. Oh..and Andrei- Jewels boyfriend. We enjoyed a great meal...then opened gifts from everyone. It was SUCH a great time. My mother made me a scarf...I will cherish it forever. I LOVE it! I really loved watching my little baby niece teter around squealing and having such a great time playing with everyone and being passed from person to person. She is a great baby and really fun to be around. Some babies stress me out...but not Caroline. She is very pleasant and soooo cute. I wish we lived closer and could see them more. The Wii was a big hit. That was our family gift from Grandma Alice in Las Vegas. It is SO fun! Jeff and I decided to get the Wii Fit also...so between the 2 we had several hours of playing and having fun. Kitch, the boys and my brother loved playing with it too. I have been Wii "Fitting" for 5 days now and I'm SORE but I feel good. It's really fun.

I took down all of our Christmas decor on Saturday. I've always been the type of person who is ready to move on from Christmas before the new year. Just pack it up and get back to normal life! (That's my motto) I'm glad Christmas is over but I think it's one of the best we've had in a long time. Once again, the only thing that would have made it perfect is if my baby sister Dusty and her husband were with us. I miss them. Next year? Haha...

Weekend Wrap Up

2008-12-21T21:05:00.006-06:00

It's been a pretty good weekend. We did a whole lot of nothing...

Friday we rented a few movies and stayed in. Saturday we did our normal routine... I get up and take care of the dogs while Jeff, Lizzy and JD sleep in. (Chris is with his dad on Saturday mornings) I turn on some music and after an hour or so, the fam gets woken up by my music and wander downstairs to join me. So- I get in about an hour to an hour and a half of housework. I was listening to John Legend too...so that double annoys my family (wait...JD loves him too :) Saturday night I was feeling like being left alone by everyone so I just hung out at home and went to bed at about 11 (pretty early for me on a sat.) Today (Sunday) we went to Richmond, MO to my baby niece's 1st birthday party. She is one of the cutest babies I've ever seen. Of course, I'm a bit partial :) She looked like a little angel...and so well behaved! I really enjoyed every minute of her party today...and it was really nice to see my brother and his wife. When we left, we got a little turned around and went about 45 minutes in the wrong direction. In the end, it took us a total of 1 hr 45 minutes to get home....but you know what? I had really great company (Penny) and we talked and talked the whole way.

I have to work this upcoming week but only 2 days. Monday will be a full day and Tuesday will be a bit of a screw off day. My boss goes to Sam's with an "elf" (a male employee) and buys booze and chocolate for each employee. It's a tradition that I've been a part of for 7 Christmas' now. This is the benefit of working for a small business....we're family and I am really grateful to be a part of a business like the one I work for.

Jeff and I are "THIS CLOSE" to being done with our Christmas shopping. I have a daughter that is very hard to shop for because she has her hand dipped into so many hobbies and has so many interests. She'll be the 1st female president :)

I'm really excited for this Christmas. My family and Jeff's parents are coming over for presents and Christmas dinner. The only way it could be better (perfect really) is if my sister Dusty and her husband Adam were with us. Hopefully, we can arrange to spend a Christmas together within the next few years.

8 Days Mom...

2008-12-17T08:41:00.001-06:00

....this is what my son, Chris who is 8 told me today. "Eight days until Christmas" Yep- time is flying by. I am ALMOST I mean really close to being done shopping. I started early (for me) this year...so I feel good about my progress. I'm ready for some down time at home....it's coming. Next week I work 2 days and the week after I work 3.

So I've totally falled off the horse with working out. I suck. I have a Wii Fit waiting to be opened on Christmas and I'm really excited to use it. Yesterday I weighed myself and I'm at 145. I don't want to hear anyone bawk at me for being down about that weight. It's the most I've ever weighed.....and I'm not happy. I will get back on track- I have to.

So did anyone see the finale of The Biggest Loser? I'm so happy Michelle won. She went from 242 to 132...that's 45.5% of her body weight!

I'm a little cranky today...because I've got some kind of silly stomach bug that is nagging me. I'm not full fledged sick- but I've got a really bad stomach ache that is nagging me and has been for two days. My mom and Jewel had it...but way worse. I have not thrown up at all....but I feel close. Ug..e.nough complaining.

A Beautiful Mess

2008-12-12T11:03:00.000-06:00

I only put music on this blog that I think is really worth listening to....this song is beautiful.

Ug

2008-12-11T13:16:00.000-06:00

I don't feel well. I feel queezy. Not sure why. I'd like to go home and lie down....but no time for that. I'm busy until 8:15 tonight.

:(

The Weekend

2008-12-08T08:37:00.000-06:00

What a weekend!

Friday night was pretty boring..I actually went to bed about 10:30 if you can believe that. I think all of the working out last week caught up with me.

Saturday, Jeff, Chris and I went to Olathe to look at some things we needed to repair the outside dog kennel (did I mention that Sophies crafty ass broke out of the outside kennel?). At 2:00 Jeff and I watched Lizzy perform in a violin concert for the "honors strings". It was fun and I'm really proud of her. This was also in Olathe. Then, at 5pm I picked up Penny and we went to an ornament exchange party at my good friend Kelly's house (also in Olathe!). It was a great time! There were a few people that I've kept in contact with from HS but a few I have not seen in about 15 years...makes me feel old! I hope we do it again soon...it was a blast catching up, talking about our current lives/kids/husbands etc... and it was also fun talking about old memories from HS.

Sunday, Jeff and I took the kids to do some Christmas shopping....we are ALMOST done! It's about this time of year that I am starting to be OVER IT. I'm ready for the holiday to come and go so we can get back to normal life. I'm looking forward to having a few short weeks at work, and spending some time with my family. Anyway, we watched Denver beat the Chiefs- but it was actually a really fun game to watch. JD's boyfriend came over and I made a big pot of ham/potato soup (which was really good btw). I made it to bed about 11:30pm...not too bad.

Great weekend.

Working Out

2008-12-04T09:14:00.000-06:00

I'm sitting in my new office- it's freezing in here....but it's MINE :) Blowing off work apparently...I've got things on my mind. Nothing major, just life stuff.

I lifted weights last night for about an hour. It felt GOOD! I love lifting weights (light ones...duh)..it makes me feeel strong and that's a great feeling. I printed out a calendar yesterday with my workout schedule for the month of December. I'm going to do every day on there...even if it kills me! I have given myself off 2 days per week....usually Tuesdays and Saturdays. 2 days of lifting weights and 3 days of 30 minutes of cardio (minimum). Jeff went with JD and I to the Gym last night. He was doing 700lbs on the leg press...yes, SEVEN HUNDRED POUNDS!!!! He's got some really big and strong legs, you know what I'm talking about if you've ever seen him. Jeff has been lifting weights for so many years that he does an unbelieveable amount of weight ...he does less reps than I do, but it's very effective. Anyway, if I can put a smiley face over every day that I have planned to work out for the whole month of December...I'm going to do something really nice for myself...I'm not sure what, but it'll be good. I need to lose about eh....10lbs AT LEAST....15 if I get really motivated....and 20 if I get crazy. If I lost 20 lbs I'd weigh 124...it's been a very long time since I've weighed that much.

This is SOOOO funny!

2008-11-30T20:44:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T09:21:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving everybody! Today is the day to celebrate and be thankful for life, love and liberty. (No, this is not a political blog) I'm thankful that:

I have 3 amazing kids
I have a great husband
I have a great job
I have 3 great pets
I am healthy

My Office Is Moving

2008-11-24T10:22:00.000-06:00

So - tomorrow is the big moving day for AE...they have been in this suite on the Country Club Plaza (in MO) for 10 years now. I have been here for 6.5 years of that 10. We are moving to 107th and Mission (in KS) tomorrow. I'm really glad we are moving; and even happier that all of my "affairs" will be in KS. No more 1% of my income City of KC!!!

I get to be closer to work AND get a 1% raise...gotta love that.

The best part is...I get an OFFICE! Yes, an office with an actual door. I'm sooooo excited. My last job I had a nice, big office but made no money at all....so when I quit there and started working here, I made more money but immediately went to an out in the open desk. A few years later we had some fancy "cubes" built and I am in one of those. I have a real desk, a nice leather chair and 3 walls....but no door and no privacy. I am being given the smallest office in the suite....but that really doesn't bother me ... I'm grateful I even get one since I work PT. I have gotten all of my "decor" ready at home....a few paintings and some framed pictures. I've gotta get my new digs looking sharp!

So- as I sit in a sea of packed/1/2 packed and in progress boxes ....tape...labels...and "who get's what" conversations....I can take a moment to reflect on my time here at AE, and realize how lucky I am to be a part of such a great company. I've enjoyed working on the Plaza tremendously ...and it's helped me to get to know a part of town that I never knew before. I'll never ...never drive by One Ward Pkwy. again without thinking of all the good memories I have in this building.

Hurt

2008-11-22T21:35:00.001-06:00

NIN

2008-11-22T18:36:00.000-06:00

Saw NIN last night in Columbia, MO...it was AMAZING!!!!

If you can find a thing wrong with these photos never call me again...because clearly, you are not my friend. :)

(Sorry Johnny Depp, you've been knocked off a pedistal)

I like Pop music???

2008-11-14T09:36:00.001-06:00

I went to see New Kids on the Block in concert Tuesday night...haha...laugh it up all you want...it was free and in a Suite- with food provided. I never turn down a free night of entertainment! Anyway, NKOTB was eh....not really all that interesting....bordering on pathetic really, but it was fun to see them I have to admit. BUT....I discovered that I like a "pop" artist. The opening act was a gal named "Lady GaGa" - (what a dumb name)...anyway, she considers herself "pop art" and to be honest, that's exactly how I would describe her show. It was very visual- and I discovered I kind of liked the music. Here is a the song I liked the best:

I also discovered I REALLY like Natasha Bedingfield. I have heard her before, but she is a FABULOUS singer live....even better than on CD- which is rare to find. Here she is:

Title?

2008-11-10T13:01:00.000-06:00

I'm not sure how to title what's happened in the last week. I've been thinking about posting about this but it's a lot to go through...and quite frankly it's daunting to even think about how to post about this without going on and on about things that don't matter. Let me just begin...

Tuesday night my sister Penny and her boys were over....we were having an "election party" with our kids. Everything was going along well until....my dogs broke out in a fight in my kitchen. Jeff was not home so Penny and I had to break it up ourselves- that was NOT easy. Penny did a fantastic job of remaining calm and being extremely helpful. My older dog, Sumo was hurt. He had a puncture wound on his right paw. When Jeff got home he took him to the ER vet. Everything was fine...no stitch- $92 (not bad).

This is the 4th fight my dogs have gotten into. I was very startled about this.......I pretty much decided that Sophia had to go. I decided that before I made that final decision that I would consult with our vet first. The vet told me that this would probably happen again, but to call a dog behaviorist first before we made that decision.

Well I did jump the gun a bit and post an ad on craigslist. I cried and cried all night over this decision..... The next day Jeff and I decided to call a behaviorist. I called a man named Earl http://evnewland.com/

He came over on Sunday of this week and helped us with some dicipline and training issues. He was very complimentary on what we have been doing already- and suggested some things we can try. He did say that he tought that Sumo and Sophie did not need to be split up...that was a relief. They are now wearing Halti collar when in the house. This is a training tool that we will use inside of the house at all times- and on walks. Dogs cannot do anything without the use of their head to lead and this collar gives us the control of their head. Also- when the leash is pulled, it shuts the dogs mouth- so if there is a fight, we can more successfully end it. We have also bought an air horn to scare the shit out of them if the do fight.

Because Sophies dominant personality is the root of the problem, we've taken away all toys- picked up food and water and are minimizing things that could allow her to dominate Sumo. For instance, she is dominant in our bedroom. So- at night she now sleeps in a kennel in our room and Sumo sleeps outside of it.

Oh- one more thing....we found out that Sumo has a bad hip. New diet for him.

I remain cautiously optimistic about the situation. I have discovered just how much I love Sophie and am willing to work very hard to keep her and Sumo in a safe environment.

This experience has helped renew doggie dicipline in our house, which will help everyone.

I saw them!

2008-11-04T09:34:00.000-06:00

Last night about 7pm I drove through DT Overland Park on my way home from taking Jewel to the Dr. (once again...4th trip in 5 weeks...another story).....and I saw them! We drove past the Culinary Center of KC and I saw a cooking class in session. The class was in session...the chefs had their coats and toques (chefs hat). It was a cool sight ...especially knowing that will be me someday.

Oh yeah by the way ...it's election day!

Today

2008-11-02T22:05:00.001-06:00

I had a great day today. I took my daughter, Jewel to take her Senior pictures at various places in KC. We went to a few spots on Ward Pkwy., Loose Park and the Plaza. Not bad shots for a mom holding a digital camera eh?

Here are my favorite shots...of course once again...I'm a proud Mom!!

Happy Halloween!!

2008-10-31T09:48:00.000-05:00

So this is what happens when you live in KS and put a Jack-O-Lantern on your porch....it becomes squirrel food!

This is after it was outside for 2 days.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!

This is GREAT!

2008-10-30T08:30:00.000-05:00

I Ate!

2008-10-26T15:55:00.000-05:00

I ate...and I'm ok with it. I caved- out and about running errands with Jeff and Lizzy. We were at Costco walking around watching THEM eat samples... I had a terrible headache- and just feeling overall miserable. So we went to Chillis. I had chips and salsa (my fav. there) and a serloin. Yep- I dived right in...haha!

I'm sure that's all I'll eat today- but to be honest I'm glad I did. At least my perma headache is almost gone!

Sunday Morning

2008-10-26T10:01:00.000-05:00

It's Sunday morning (10:05) and I feel good! Yesterday was totally worth it ...especially when I stepped on the scale this morning and was 4.5lbs down! I know I know that's not the healthiest way to lose weight.....but it's a great way to jump start.

My discovery of weight loss has motivated me to keep going today.... so right now I'm having 1/2 an apple and a glass of 1/2 cranberry 1/2 orange juice. I've found that I LOVE the combination and it's pretty too!

By the way...I'm glad I ate the small amt of pork last night. It made me feel a lot better and really did keep me feeling full for the night. I'll probably do the same thing tonight.

Cheat...

2008-10-25T20:48:00.000-05:00

I just ate about 1oz of leftover pork roast...maybe not even an ounce. But I have to be honest...I feel MUCH better. I feel like I actually have something in my stomach.

Eventhough I "cheated" I still feel good about today. I know after eating that small amt. of food I'll be able to get through the night without a problem.

Cooking Class

2008-10-25T18:26:00.000-05:00

I forgot to mention something... I've found a cooking class I want to take. Its at the Culinary Center of Kansas City- located in DT Overland Park (very close to my house). Its 9 weeks long; 1 night/week for 3 hours. I think it will be really fun! Ok, yes there is a downside to everything ...right? Well here it is...it's $875. I know, I know...chump change right? NOT

I have a little over $200 of my own money saved now (wow- I sound like a kid) and I can continue to save until the class...which I believe won't start until after the 1st of the year. The class is currently in session through November and I've sent an email to them inquiring about when the next session will start.

If you know me at all, you know I love to cook - and this is something I've been wanting to do for several years. I do not have interest in changing professions or anything like that...I just think it'd be a fun experience and I'd love to learn more about cooking and cooking methods.

Ok Damnit

2008-10-25T17:42:00.000-05:00

I've got the worst headache! I'm one of those people who gets headaches when I don't eat though...so I did expect it.

It's 6:18pm

About an hour ago I had a small apple slice - and now I'm having a Naked drink- "Blue Machine".

Doing Ok

2008-10-25T14:08:00.001-05:00

It's 2:08 on Saturday.

For breakfast I had 1 small slice of tomato w/ salt and pepper on it, and 2 small slices of cucumber along with a glass of cranberry juice. Lizzy and I were at Borders and I was starving so I bought a small Naked drink from the cafe there. Now I'm having about 1/3 of a coffee mug of leftover broth w/ pepper from last night.

I'm doing fine....I'm hungry but nothing terrible yet. Lizzy and I rented some movies so I'm going to stay IN tonight and watch movies. Right now we are watching "What Happens In Vegas" w/ Cameron Diaz and Ashton Kutcher (sp?).

I also got "Dexter" Season 2 disk 3&4 and "The Good Shepard" to keep me occupied tonight...

So Far...

2008-10-24T20:54:00.000-05:00

....it's not bad. I have had 1 naked drink, a glass of cranberry and 1/2 a can of broth cooked with pepper.

It's 8:55pm

I'll probably have something small for breakfast...just to start my day off right. I think I'll have a slice of tomato and 2-3 slices of cucumber.

Wish me luck!

Weekend Fast

2008-10-24T15:32:00.001-05:00

I'm going to do a semi liquid diet fast this weekend. Actually, I started today after lunch- teehee. My goal is to go until Monday morning w/o any meat and very little solid food. The reason I'm doing this is because I REALLY need to find my center- and stop revolving my day around food. Also- a weekend without meat and very little solid food will be good for my digestive system. Here is what I have for the weekend:

3 Naked drinks

1 Bottle of 100% Cranberry Juice

1/2 Gallon Pure Orange Juice

2 Cans Chicken Broth

1 Small Zucchini

1 Cucumber

1 Tomato

1 Apple

1 Serving Applesauce

The food is for when I just can't stand it (most likely dinnertime) and I plan to eat a very small amount when I do.

So here's the deal- I am going to take to this blog when I think I can't handle it or have trouble with this. I have done this before but NEVER made it a whole weekend. I feel it's important for me to prove to myself that I can do this.

So 3:45 first 1/2 day....I last ate at 11:45 today. So obviously ...no hunger yet. Wish me luck!

We WON!!

2008-10-19T20:10:00.000-05:00

Mac - n - Seitz Indians WON the Monster Bash Tournament!!!

Yippee!!!!!

Dugout / Baseball Game

2008-10-18T19:36:00.000-05:00

Indians WON ...yippee! Game 1 of the Halloween tourney is over. Here is the finished dugout.

Jack Skellington Coming To "Life"

2008-10-17T09:38:00.003-05:00

My son is playing in a baseball tournament this weekend. Since it's so close to Halloween of course it's got a Halloween theme. It's called the "Monster Bash"...haha There are several contests involving costumes, spirit etc... The one I chose to head up is the dugout decorating contest. I've got 3 wonderful moms also following my lead...and I've come up with a fun idea. We are doing "The Nightmare Before Christmas". OF COURSE....the new cd inspired me. I've been itching to do something w/ that theme for several years now. Anyway, I painted life size Jack Skellington...and here he is coming to life.....

I will post pictures of the dugout this weekend....

You've Got To Check Out This CD!

2008-10-13T12:24:00.001-05:00