Saturday, December 31, 2011
Friday, December 30, 2011
12/30/11
So around 1:30 yesterday, I somehow hurt my back. It was quite bizarre. What an amazing tool the heating pad is! I have too much to do to be slowed down.
55 and sunny today. However, in Phoenix it is 75 today. Yeah, I'm so there in my mind. It never snows but if you want snow, you drive two hours north. 4 hours drive is the GC. Las Vegas and Los Angeles are within driving distance. It is sunny just about 365 days per year. And heat? The hotter the better. I had my AC on this year in RI from May through November and have barely used the heat this winter so my guess is Phoenix will be similar, but with no heat. I guess you've figured out where I'd rather be. 1.5 million people can't be wrong!
I'm going to have to jump in the shower and start getting ready. This may be a long process with my back. Right now it's feeling ok but the stiffness comes back sudden and fierce.
55 and sunny today. However, in Phoenix it is 75 today. Yeah, I'm so there in my mind. It never snows but if you want snow, you drive two hours north. 4 hours drive is the GC. Las Vegas and Los Angeles are within driving distance. It is sunny just about 365 days per year. And heat? The hotter the better. I had my AC on this year in RI from May through November and have barely used the heat this winter so my guess is Phoenix will be similar, but with no heat. I guess you've figured out where I'd rather be. 1.5 million people can't be wrong!
I'm going to have to jump in the shower and start getting ready. This may be a long process with my back. Right now it's feeling ok but the stiffness comes back sudden and fierce.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
New Year
It's that time of year again. I did really well with my workout resolutions. I did well with my blog writing resolutions. Not so well on my other writing ones. So new year, new me...
Continue working out every day.
Blog/write something every day.
Make out with my husband at least once per day.
Reduce/reuse/recycle
Continue working out every day.
Blog/write something every day.
Make out with my husband at least once per day.
Reduce/reuse/recycle
12/28/11
Worst night's sleep EVER. That was last night. Tonight I will be dreaming of...Phoenix! It's like the world has started to suddenly make sense again. My Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Lake Tahoe, colorodo, 4 Corners, Hot Springs dreams aren't unattainable if we move closer to them!! Not to mention a 2500 square foot 4 bedroom home, with in ground pool and a master SUITE...and the job fits my husband like a tight muscle shirt. I love adventures and RI has been conquered. Still open to NYC, DC, Florida, Cali, Texas but the idea of Phoenix makes us happiest.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
12/27/11
Christmas was nice. My husband did a fabulous job with his thoughtfulness! Better than Christmas was spending most of Monday with him. It turned into a perfect day and I love when those sneak up on you. I love feeling "in love" and there are times when you're both running around, picking up or dropping off kids, running errands, cleaning up the same mess for the billionth time, paying the same damn bills that just won't go away, gaining and losing the same 10 pounds over and over, having the same arguments, and when bedtime comes around, the last thing you want to do is waste the precious few moments before sleep on foreplay. So a day in which I can just enjoy kissing my husband and laughing with him and actually TALKiNG is perfect to me.
We know some big changes are coming in the next 6 months or so and I for one am so excited! I know that no matter where we go, we will succeed because we are together.
We know some big changes are coming in the next 6 months or so and I for one am so excited! I know that no matter where we go, we will succeed because we are together.
Friday, December 23, 2011
12/23/11
Merry eve of Christmas Eve. My shopping is done and my presents are wrapped. Mitch has to wrap the stuff he bought. I got most of the food shopping done. There are a few things that I forgot but that's what tomorrow is for!
I've just been relaxing in my room. Candles burning. Listening to Pandora. NOT listening to Christmas music! Why? Because I've been listening to it since July. The last two weeks before Christmas, I typically fall out of the Christmas spirit because of all the "other" people. Oh well, I'm sure people have their reasons for waiting till the last minute and ruining life for the rest of us. I'm most proud of the fact that my person entered no mall, Walmart or Target at all this season, except for today when I ran into the Wakefield mall for a couple of items. All of my shopping was done online and delivered to my front door. It wasn't my most extravagant spending season but I'm sure my husband appreciates that and while I do feel a teensy bit guilty, we just don't have any extra room in this house and we're moving to a new house in about 6 months.
I am very much looking forward to resuming my normal shopping patterns and buying things as I want them and not for a special occasion. I think this is the longest Bella's gone without getting something new. One of us is always picking her up a little something every week. She's just so dang cute when she walks by something and hugs it! I'm going to try this tactic with Mitch and see if it really works.
I've just been relaxing in my room. Candles burning. Listening to Pandora. NOT listening to Christmas music! Why? Because I've been listening to it since July. The last two weeks before Christmas, I typically fall out of the Christmas spirit because of all the "other" people. Oh well, I'm sure people have their reasons for waiting till the last minute and ruining life for the rest of us. I'm most proud of the fact that my person entered no mall, Walmart or Target at all this season, except for today when I ran into the Wakefield mall for a couple of items. All of my shopping was done online and delivered to my front door. It wasn't my most extravagant spending season but I'm sure my husband appreciates that and while I do feel a teensy bit guilty, we just don't have any extra room in this house and we're moving to a new house in about 6 months.
I am very much looking forward to resuming my normal shopping patterns and buying things as I want them and not for a special occasion. I think this is the longest Bella's gone without getting something new. One of us is always picking her up a little something every week. She's just so dang cute when she walks by something and hugs it! I'm going to try this tactic with Mitch and see if it really works.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
AND...
...it was almost 60 yesterday. Similar weather for today, except bright sunshine instead of rain...this IS December, right?
12/22/11
And the countdown continues. I really hope Mitch's bigger present comes or I'm in a heap of trouble! Tomorrow morning I will be picking up a few last minute items and the food. Christmas Day is looking like a lots of snacks, alcohol and Wii games kind of day! Can not wait!
I worked out yesterday!! Yay! Getting ready to hop on the bike again today. I started feeling poorly around Thanksgiving time and never got back to good. I still wasn't feeling it, but I went a whole year working out every day, sometimes twice a day, and I refuse to let that hard work go to waste. That being said, I haven't been terribly hard on myself for not feeling well and letting the workouts slide. Mostly because I think they were part of the reason I wasn't feeling well. I think I started over doing it, as it was messing with my periods and sleep cycles, and hair/skin. I'm not a big eater anyway, and when you start doing two workouts everyday, it can really take a toll. Not sure I won't get back to that, but this time I will be making sure to be more diligent with my multi and fluid intake.
I still have to paint those dolls and wrap, wrap, wrap.
I'm really looking forward to a year full of positive changes and a skinny and HOT summer, full of sun, sand, ocean, and good books! Have I mentioned how pleased I am that Bella is so good at walking, carrying and lugging? Her skills will be put to the test on our daily beach treks!
So I finished Stephen King's Under the Dome. I enjoyed it. I have had similar thoughts and experiences regarding the plot, and most of the time, find those thoughts so hard to wrap my head around and so overwhelming, that I just give up, much like SK did in writing the novel. He managed to get back to the story, and take it on twists and turns that I wouldn't have managed and there you have it! Looking forward to the inevitable mini-series. Having grown up in Maine, and in the same small town as his wife, Tabitha to be exact, I appreciated the book on that level, as I do most of their books and stories, but I'm sort of curious what it's like to read Stephen King and NOT be from Maine (Old Town/Orono/Bangor).
I'm currently reading Gregory Maguire's Out of Oz. The last book of the Wicked series.
I worked out yesterday!! Yay! Getting ready to hop on the bike again today. I started feeling poorly around Thanksgiving time and never got back to good. I still wasn't feeling it, but I went a whole year working out every day, sometimes twice a day, and I refuse to let that hard work go to waste. That being said, I haven't been terribly hard on myself for not feeling well and letting the workouts slide. Mostly because I think they were part of the reason I wasn't feeling well. I think I started over doing it, as it was messing with my periods and sleep cycles, and hair/skin. I'm not a big eater anyway, and when you start doing two workouts everyday, it can really take a toll. Not sure I won't get back to that, but this time I will be making sure to be more diligent with my multi and fluid intake.
I still have to paint those dolls and wrap, wrap, wrap.
I'm really looking forward to a year full of positive changes and a skinny and HOT summer, full of sun, sand, ocean, and good books! Have I mentioned how pleased I am that Bella is so good at walking, carrying and lugging? Her skills will be put to the test on our daily beach treks!
So I finished Stephen King's Under the Dome. I enjoyed it. I have had similar thoughts and experiences regarding the plot, and most of the time, find those thoughts so hard to wrap my head around and so overwhelming, that I just give up, much like SK did in writing the novel. He managed to get back to the story, and take it on twists and turns that I wouldn't have managed and there you have it! Looking forward to the inevitable mini-series. Having grown up in Maine, and in the same small town as his wife, Tabitha to be exact, I appreciated the book on that level, as I do most of their books and stories, but I'm sort of curious what it's like to read Stephen King and NOT be from Maine (Old Town/Orono/Bangor).
I'm currently reading Gregory Maguire's Out of Oz. The last book of the Wicked series.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
12/20/11
Hoping the rest of the gifts get delivered before Christmas. I have Friday off so I'm hoping to finalize things on this day. We're having Christmas dinner on Christmas Eve night. Ham, mashed potatoes, lots of veggies and Hayley's pumpkin cheesecake. Christmas morning we will have our traditional cinnamon rolls and toasted bagel pieces with assorted cream cheeses and have lots of snack stuff throughout the day. Crackers, cheese, rangoons, chips and dips, guacamole, salsas, corn chips, chex mix, nuts, dried fruit...etc, etc, etc.
Tomorrow Annabella will be 20 months old! Amazing how much she can still grow and change in just one month! She's getting the hang of running and jumping and we're still working on somersaults. Gymnastics was kind of my thing when I was a kid and I'm not so secretly hoping that it will be kind of her thing! She LOVES to sing and dance. She crosses her arms, stamps her little foot and pouts when she's not getting her way. I find it truly hysterical. She's peed on the potty. She holds writing and feeding utensils properly, but is still messy with both.
I'm so excited for her dollhouse to arrive! She has no idea how much fun we're going to have! I loved my dollhouse when I was a kid and I loved playing with my girls with theirs. Zach loved his Fisher Price castle and it is one of a number of toys that I wish I had held onto.
Tomorrow Annabella will be 20 months old! Amazing how much she can still grow and change in just one month! She's getting the hang of running and jumping and we're still working on somersaults. Gymnastics was kind of my thing when I was a kid and I'm not so secretly hoping that it will be kind of her thing! She LOVES to sing and dance. She crosses her arms, stamps her little foot and pouts when she's not getting her way. I find it truly hysterical. She's peed on the potty. She holds writing and feeding utensils properly, but is still messy with both.
I'm so excited for her dollhouse to arrive! She has no idea how much fun we're going to have! I loved my dollhouse when I was a kid and I loved playing with my girls with theirs. Zach loved his Fisher Price castle and it is one of a number of toys that I wish I had held onto.
Friday, December 16, 2011
12/16/11
Today is so much better than yesterday! Hayley helped me with the kitchen disaster. Mitch brought home toilet paper and Kayla brought home coffee last night. And the trash was changed and taken out before I got up this morning. AND??? My shopping is done! I need to pick up assorted coffees, teas, and hot chocolates and some nuts and banana chips and other goodies like that, that everyone loves but that is just a single trip to the grocery store and/or job lots. If Mitch can get Zach's headset and Kayla's tv wall mount, then they're done. Hayley's final gift will be a gift card. KMart was having a super awesome buy one get one 50% sale today on everything! I got some great deals on toys for Bella so now Mitch and I don't have to deal with the Toys r Us crowd this weekend! And her shopping is completed!!! Best of all? Free shipping with delivery by 12/23. All I need to do is wrap and figure out what to do about my husband. He so far has 5 items. He's asked for dress boots? And the perfect sit-up. I don't know where to start with those two. Of course I can find him boots/shoes I like if I want to spend $200 and up, and most of the casual ones that are currently in style from say J.Crew, he really doesn't like.
I have to get ready for work. Blech!!! There's another stupid Christmas party that im going to have to fight with everyone to even get them inside the building. Cesar is supposed to work with me, in which case, this will be smooth sailing. But if for some reason he doesnt, this is going to be a nightmare! Im out of work at 8, dead or alive. But there's some good news. I have next Friday off! And Saturday and Sunday. Now I might take Monday off and then I won't have to be back to work till 9 PM Tuesday night for my overnight.
I have to get ready for work. Blech!!! There's another stupid Christmas party that im going to have to fight with everyone to even get them inside the building. Cesar is supposed to work with me, in which case, this will be smooth sailing. But if for some reason he doesnt, this is going to be a nightmare! Im out of work at 8, dead or alive. But there's some good news. I have next Friday off! And Saturday and Sunday. Now I might take Monday off and then I won't have to be back to work till 9 PM Tuesday night for my overnight.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
12/15/11
I'm so sick of 3 and 4 G. Give me high speed wifi or give me death. There are days when it can be slower than old school dial- up.
And if one more person texts me while I'm in the middle of doing something I'm going to scream.
I think I'm going to scream anyway. It is so impossible for anyone else in this house to remember dish soap, toilet paper, coffee. I will leave and the dishes can sit there forever. So can the laundry in the bathroom. And the trash in the trash can. Everyone can wrap their own presents and finish their own shopping while they're at it. I'm going to start doing things like everyone else...that is not putting any time, effort, care or thought into anything that does not revolve directly around them.
And if one more person texts me while I'm in the middle of doing something I'm going to scream.
I think I'm going to scream anyway. It is so impossible for anyone else in this house to remember dish soap, toilet paper, coffee. I will leave and the dishes can sit there forever. So can the laundry in the bathroom. And the trash in the trash can. Everyone can wrap their own presents and finish their own shopping while they're at it. I'm going to start doing things like everyone else...that is not putting any time, effort, care or thought into anything that does not revolve directly around them.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
So Tired!
Still up. It's been a long day. I'm currently laying on the couch with Sierra, drinking a cup of tea and doing nothing! Zach is playing with Bella. I should be working on one of my knitting or crochet projects, or sewing Bella's finger puppets, or painting Bella's wooden sorting dolls, but actually cuddling with Sierra is just what we both need. I wish the house would magically clean itself. I wish the presents would get wrapped. I wish Christmas was next month.
Tomorrow it's been two years since my grandfather passed away.
I'm not sure how tomorrow will work out. I have to get ready. Pick up Janice in Jamestown, run errands, pick up Pete, attend Christmas party, bring Janice home and go home myself. Kayla has to work tomorrow. AND it is one of the few times I CAN'T bring Bella. Hayley can get picked up at 3:30ish so she can be with Bella from that point on. So hopefully Mitch can be with Bella from 1 till he gets Hayley. Hayley is also home for the next few weeks so that will be a nice help.
It'll all work out. I really have to get my projects completed. Blah. I need an assistant.
Tomorrow it's been two years since my grandfather passed away.
I'm not sure how tomorrow will work out. I have to get ready. Pick up Janice in Jamestown, run errands, pick up Pete, attend Christmas party, bring Janice home and go home myself. Kayla has to work tomorrow. AND it is one of the few times I CAN'T bring Bella. Hayley can get picked up at 3:30ish so she can be with Bella from that point on. So hopefully Mitch can be with Bella from 1 till he gets Hayley. Hayley is also home for the next few weeks so that will be a nice help.
It'll all work out. I really have to get my projects completed. Blah. I need an assistant.
12/14/11
Almost a week since I last blogged. Time flies during the holidays. Goal for today is to get through the day and go to bed early!!! Finally fell asleep around 12 only to be woken up at 3:30. Haven't been back to sleep yet.
For the most part, shopping is done except for Bella, which I hope Mitch and I can do together this weekend, plus we have to finish up the homemade gifts for her this weekend. We also need to figure out gift cards for the girls, although Kayla needs a tv wall mount and is fine if thats a gift. She would end up using a gift card towards the purchase anyway. I also have to finish up my husband. He is not an easy individual to buy for, despite his arguments toward the contrary. I at least leave very detailed lists and I'm not difficult to buy for if one does not wait till the last second to shop. That just leaves Zach's wireless headset, which I'm hoping Mitch will pick up for him. Believe it or not, this is actually a small Christmas for us. I'm sticking to a 10 gift per person rule. (I'm fine with not getting 10 gifts because my things are usually a bit more pricey, In case my husband is reading this.) I've gotten substantial deals on all items bought. Pretty proud of myself about that! A lot of the gifts we can enjoy together...DVDs and video games...I'm still overly pleased with my Kindle and aside from an accessory or two, I'm all set gadget wise.
This is going to be a yucky busy day, doing things I'd rather not be doing. And with Bella in tow, I might add.
For the most part, shopping is done except for Bella, which I hope Mitch and I can do together this weekend, plus we have to finish up the homemade gifts for her this weekend. We also need to figure out gift cards for the girls, although Kayla needs a tv wall mount and is fine if thats a gift. She would end up using a gift card towards the purchase anyway. I also have to finish up my husband. He is not an easy individual to buy for, despite his arguments toward the contrary. I at least leave very detailed lists and I'm not difficult to buy for if one does not wait till the last second to shop. That just leaves Zach's wireless headset, which I'm hoping Mitch will pick up for him. Believe it or not, this is actually a small Christmas for us. I'm sticking to a 10 gift per person rule. (I'm fine with not getting 10 gifts because my things are usually a bit more pricey, In case my husband is reading this.) I've gotten substantial deals on all items bought. Pretty proud of myself about that! A lot of the gifts we can enjoy together...DVDs and video games...I'm still overly pleased with my Kindle and aside from an accessory or two, I'm all set gadget wise.
This is going to be a yucky busy day, doing things I'd rather not be doing. And with Bella in tow, I might add.
Thursday, December 08, 2011
12/8/11
I don't know about anybody else but I'm just about done with 2011. In approximately 10 weeks I will be enjoying gearing up for SPRING! This is just one of many advantages to living 5 hours south of the place where even Hell freezes over (Maine). Janice and I are hoping to spend a week with her cousin in San Antonio in March or April. And I of course, am hoping for an early and warm spring for some much needed beach days. Bella and I had an unexpected one a few weeks ago and it was gloriously energizing. And promising. Bella's walked since she was 10 months old, but now she WALKS, as in can lug her own crap. Very important to enjoying a day at the beach.
Anyway, back to what a crappy year this was. Started out ok, boring even, then car disaster Spring 2011. Wasn't a money issue. Wasn't an old car issue. Simply was a mechanic can't figure out what's wrong issue. Definitely a brain can not compute moment for me. I can compute "we know what's wrong, you just can't afford it" and I can compute "the car's just too old, there's nothing we can do" but my head just shakes in stunned disbelief to hearing "we've fixed everything on it and still can't figure it out". But you're the experts. As in THE experts. Thank God for google and Al Gore and rental cars.
I need a medication or lots of alcohol or a combination of the two the block out what a disaster June through July 28 (to be exact) turned out to be. August sucked. Except for the Journey concert. That most certainly did not suck. Fall was ok. The air conditioner was on till November. The last two months of the year go by in a flash so even if they are terrible, I will be in a holiday fog and will have convinced myself that it was a good time, just to repeat it next year.
And now my blu ray player isn't working. I get sound but no video. And yes it is hooked up right because the factory home screen comes up, offering pandora, vudu, Netflix options. When I push play, the sound comes on but no video. Effing fabulous! And google hasn't helped. Apparently I'm the only person in the entire world with a broken blu ray player.
Anyway, back to what a crappy year this was. Started out ok, boring even, then car disaster Spring 2011. Wasn't a money issue. Wasn't an old car issue. Simply was a mechanic can't figure out what's wrong issue. Definitely a brain can not compute moment for me. I can compute "we know what's wrong, you just can't afford it" and I can compute "the car's just too old, there's nothing we can do" but my head just shakes in stunned disbelief to hearing "we've fixed everything on it and still can't figure it out". But you're the experts. As in THE experts. Thank God for google and Al Gore and rental cars.
I need a medication or lots of alcohol or a combination of the two the block out what a disaster June through July 28 (to be exact) turned out to be. August sucked. Except for the Journey concert. That most certainly did not suck. Fall was ok. The air conditioner was on till November. The last two months of the year go by in a flash so even if they are terrible, I will be in a holiday fog and will have convinced myself that it was a good time, just to repeat it next year.
And now my blu ray player isn't working. I get sound but no video. And yes it is hooked up right because the factory home screen comes up, offering pandora, vudu, Netflix options. When I push play, the sound comes on but no video. Effing fabulous! And google hasn't helped. Apparently I'm the only person in the entire world with a broken blu ray player.
Tuesday, December 06, 2011
Blechy
Baby girl is taking her nap. Really needed this rainy boring old Tuesday. I'm dressed, make up on and in real clothes and not my normal lazy Tuesday day off attire. Helped my mood a smidgen. Just a smaidgen.
Zach had his senior football banquet on Sunday night. It was very nice and we all had a really unexpectedly good time. But then a phone call can turn all that around. Seriously. I'm not interested in your "help" with college tuition. How about the $8000 + in back child support you currently owe. Let's start with that. But no, instead let's worry about Christmas and tuition. How can you possibly afford either if you can't make a weekly child support payment??? And now, at my son's request, I have to make a phone call to tell people to back off and let him focus on getting things done so he doesn't have to be the one to hurt feelings. This, I will GLADLY do. He is overwhelmed right now. His parents, that is his mother(ME) and step-father are both college educated. My son desires to play football at the collegiate level. My husband coaches at the collegiate level. We have it under control. As always, this is MY kid. Any communication has only been in his best interest, not because it is deserved and as of May 12, 2012, no further communication will be required.
In other news, my work schedule is being adjusted a bit and my hope is that it leaves for a more energetic me. We shall see.
Zach had his senior football banquet on Sunday night. It was very nice and we all had a really unexpectedly good time. But then a phone call can turn all that around. Seriously. I'm not interested in your "help" with college tuition. How about the $8000 + in back child support you currently owe. Let's start with that. But no, instead let's worry about Christmas and tuition. How can you possibly afford either if you can't make a weekly child support payment??? And now, at my son's request, I have to make a phone call to tell people to back off and let him focus on getting things done so he doesn't have to be the one to hurt feelings. This, I will GLADLY do. He is overwhelmed right now. His parents, that is his mother(ME) and step-father are both college educated. My son desires to play football at the collegiate level. My husband coaches at the collegiate level. We have it under control. As always, this is MY kid. Any communication has only been in his best interest, not because it is deserved and as of May 12, 2012, no further communication will be required.
In other news, my work schedule is being adjusted a bit and my hope is that it leaves for a more energetic me. We shall see.
Friday, December 02, 2011
Going for Walks
Bella loves going for her walks. She rarely uses her stroller because she loves walking and running and exploring.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
11/29/11
I had fun wearing my high heels yesterday. I got lots of compliments on them.
Bella is almost asleep. She is hugging her stuffed Simba. I was wondering what, if anything, she would use for security. Zach had (has!) Baby blankie. My little brother had a crib sheet he dragged around and a purple Care Bear cousin...the raccoon I think...my girls didn't need anything.
I have a dull aching neck ache and a bit of a headache. Even still, the house is straightened up, dishes washed. Floors swept. Just going to mop them and call it a day. I'm very glad I have the day off.
Bella is almost asleep. She is hugging her stuffed Simba. I was wondering what, if anything, she would use for security. Zach had (has!) Baby blankie. My little brother had a crib sheet he dragged around and a purple Care Bear cousin...the raccoon I think...my girls didn't need anything.
I have a dull aching neck ache and a bit of a headache. Even still, the house is straightened up, dishes washed. Floors swept. Just going to mop them and call it a day. I'm very glad I have the day off.
Monday, November 28, 2011
11/28/11
Thanksgiving was fun but so tiring. Bella was in the mood of all moods on this day. It's amazing we all survived. Zach and football team won their Thanksgiving Day game. First playoff game tomorrow night. If they win they play again Saturday. Senior Football banquet Sunday night. Tonight Janice and I are attending her bowling banquet.
Two hours of cardio done this morning. All showered and done up. Just trying to figure out what I will be wearing.
Two hours of cardio done this morning. All showered and done up. Just trying to figure out what I will be wearing.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
11/22/11
I think today will be a cleaning/movie watching/pajama day for Bella and me! I have a few projects to get done. Dinner to make this evening but I just want to enjoy the holiday. I have some Christmas movies to watch and Bella of course has her Ice Age and Wizard of Oz to watch.
I'm reading Stephen King's Under the Dome. His books make me feel like I'm home. When I'm there though, I can't wait to leave, but I do miss it sometimes. The yard sales. The back country winding roads with a 45 mph speed limit. In RI, we have tons of back country winding roads but with a 25 mph speed limit. I understand why though.
I finished The Help, the same day I finished Mockingjay. That was the same day I discovered Gregory Maguire has a new to me book out. The final in his Oz series. Of course I had just started Under the Dome. Both of those should carry me through the holiday. I also have to finish A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. Then finally on to The Life of Pi, the two John Irving novels by my bed...the Dragon Tattoo series...gosh, I pretty much have the next 6 months planned out.
I'm finishing up my hour of cardio then my pajama day will begin.
I'm reading Stephen King's Under the Dome. His books make me feel like I'm home. When I'm there though, I can't wait to leave, but I do miss it sometimes. The yard sales. The back country winding roads with a 45 mph speed limit. In RI, we have tons of back country winding roads but with a 25 mph speed limit. I understand why though.
I finished The Help, the same day I finished Mockingjay. That was the same day I discovered Gregory Maguire has a new to me book out. The final in his Oz series. Of course I had just started Under the Dome. Both of those should carry me through the holiday. I also have to finish A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. Then finally on to The Life of Pi, the two John Irving novels by my bed...the Dragon Tattoo series...gosh, I pretty much have the next 6 months planned out.
I'm finishing up my hour of cardio then my pajama day will begin.
Monday, November 21, 2011
11/21/11
Annabella is 19 months old today!!! She went for a nice walk with Pop yesterday and tried to go trick or treating again. Meanwhile back at the ranch, Hayley and Zach decorated the tree while I cleaned and put a few Christmas items out. Trying hard to keep the breakable stuff packed away. Bella is doing well with the tree. She loves Kayla's Wizard of Oz ornaments from when she was a baby, so Bella had a nice time playing with them. They've been since put away till maybe next year. I don't want them ruined. So our mission this year is to make her the wooden peg dolls that I wanted to make her, but in the Wizard of Oz fashion. I think we'll have fun with this project! I'm also thinking some Wizard of Oz finger puppets as well. She was enthralled when I acted out the movie with the ornaments!
Today, my mission is to get stuff for wedding soup, Mexican soup and Italian stew. Our dinners for the next three nights. And I also have to pick up items for thanksgiving dinner.
Today, my mission is to get stuff for wedding soup, Mexican soup and Italian stew. Our dinners for the next three nights. And I also have to pick up items for thanksgiving dinner.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
11/17/11
I wish I had more hours in the day. Of course, I'd just end up filling those to the nth degree too, and be sitting wishing for more. I crapped out on my birthday husband last night around 10:30. I was just overcome by sheer exhaustion and that rarely happens, so I'm so thankful that my wonderfully amazing man just let me sleep. I believe I actually slept through. I have to say, more and more of my dreams are oceanic adventerures. Could be the waves, foghorn and salt air that I go to sleep to. Maybe it's because we've lived on the ocean for the last 5 years. In last night's dream, the water was so warm and a lovely turquoise color.
I'm feeling kind of blah today. I think it's the dreary weather. I am looking forward to reading Mockingjay tonight. Mockingjay is the final book in The Hunger Games trilogy. I've so enjoyed these books. I love books that become a part of you forever. I love getting lost in books. It has happened increasingly less as my life (my time and attentions) get tugged at from every direction. I love that these books were such excellent competition to my life's demands and my technological addictions.
Today is definitely a jeans and sweatshirt kind of day. Blechy out there.
I'm feeling kind of blah today. I think it's the dreary weather. I am looking forward to reading Mockingjay tonight. Mockingjay is the final book in The Hunger Games trilogy. I've so enjoyed these books. I love books that become a part of you forever. I love getting lost in books. It has happened increasingly less as my life (my time and attentions) get tugged at from every direction. I love that these books were such excellent competition to my life's demands and my technological addictions.
Today is definitely a jeans and sweatshirt kind of day. Blechy out there.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Happy Birthday!!!!
Happy birthday to the most wonderful guy I know! I love you more than coffee. More than my iPhone. More than all the Frye boots in the world. More than Dwayne. More than Derek. More than Hugh and Colin and Russell!!! I'm one lucky woman! Thanks for putting up with me! And thanks for giving me THE BIG ONE! Hahaha. Inside joke.
Well I can't say I slept well, but I did sleep in. Workout completed. Showered. Working on getting motivated to brush my teeth and apply some moisturizer. Have to get some kind of birthday dessert. Probably make a quiche or the Italian stew my husband loves for his birthday dinner. Not sure I should kill myself over this because I will never see him again since he got his new iPhone! It took me like 6 months to stop sleeping with mine and even now, it isn't far from my side when I'm not awake. I think I'm naming my next dog Steve. Probably quiche. Since I need to use up those eggs. Random pattern my brain is working.
Well I can't say I slept well, but I did sleep in. Workout completed. Showered. Working on getting motivated to brush my teeth and apply some moisturizer. Have to get some kind of birthday dessert. Probably make a quiche or the Italian stew my husband loves for his birthday dinner. Not sure I should kill myself over this because I will never see him again since he got his new iPhone! It took me like 6 months to stop sleeping with mine and even now, it isn't far from my side when I'm not awake. I think I'm naming my next dog Steve. Probably quiche. Since I need to use up those eggs. Random pattern my brain is working.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
That Was Easy!
Side table cleared off and wiped down. Top of fridge cleaned off. Need to re-sweep because there's crumbs every where. Still need to de-scumify tub and wash the fridge. I'm also going to wipe down cabinets. This will be the LAST time I have white cabinets. What a pain in the ass.
Blah
I hate how one cleaning task leads to the next and the next thing you know, you're so far from the original plan that there's no end in sight! So rearranging the living room led to me dusting the sills, which led me to noticing how disgusting the windows were, which then led me to notice how disgusting the outside of the windows were after the insides were windexed clean. Cleaning the shower, led to scrubbing the toilet, which led to cleaning the sink and counter, which wasn't part of today's plan. I cleaned out the fridge and had a TON of dishes that needed to get done. Still have to clean the tub and actually wash the fridge. It is noon and I'm freaking ready to go back to bed! I still have to get halfway decent to get to the freaking store to get stuff for dinner and buy my husband a birthday card.
Okay, okay, okay...I will sit here for a little while and have some lunch and drink some tea or coffee. Just sitting here, I've noticed two more projects I need to get done. Clean off the top of the fridge and the side table. I hate having ANYTHING on my fridge. Seems to be drug central every cold and flu season and in the summer it is loaded up with sun blocks of every SPF and bug spray. Also can't stand when people keep cereal boxes on top of the fridge. We don't, but some people do. It's tacky. Food needs to be put away.
Bella is being the most gigantic pain in the butt right now. But my house is looking good and smells so clean. I just might survive the holidays after all!
Okay, okay, okay...I will sit here for a little while and have some lunch and drink some tea or coffee. Just sitting here, I've noticed two more projects I need to get done. Clean off the top of the fridge and the side table. I hate having ANYTHING on my fridge. Seems to be drug central every cold and flu season and in the summer it is loaded up with sun blocks of every SPF and bug spray. Also can't stand when people keep cereal boxes on top of the fridge. We don't, but some people do. It's tacky. Food needs to be put away.
Bella is being the most gigantic pain in the butt right now. But my house is looking good and smells so clean. I just might survive the holidays after all!
11/15/11
I'm amazed at how much has been accomplished since 6:30 this morning. I cuddled with Bella till about 7:30. Living room has been dusted, swept, mopped and rearranged for the tree. Kitchen counters washed, kitchen floor swept and mopped. Now I need to do the dishes and clean out the fridge. Candles are burning, windows opened to enjoy the 65 degree Mid-NOVEMBER day. I also got my first hour of cardio in today! I still have to get to the store to get stuff for dinner. No idea what we're having. And home to decorate the tree.
Monday, November 14, 2011
11/14/11
I'm not sure why I'm surprised every year at how quickly November goes flying by! Thanksgiving is next Thursday! What?!?!?!? I want to thank my husband for really doing a very nice job cleaning our bedroom yesterday. I'm so allergic to dust that I'm miserable after I do any kind of major cleaning in high dust areas (just thinking about attics has me sneezing) and I really appreciate him tackling this for me.
I'm hoping to get the tree up this weekend. I like to do it the day after Thanksgiving but I don't have Fridays off these days so if I do it this week/or weekend, I can focus next week on planning a nice holiday for us. I need to thoroughly clean the fridge and kitchen and put some of Bella's toys in her bedroom for the next few weeks to make room for the tree. The way we have the living room set up now, I think we will only lose one seat to the tree for television viewing. I'm trying a few side dish recipes this week to possibly add to the holiday menu. Typically I focus more on appetizers and have a basic traditional holiday meal. Think we will stick to that plan but I want to spruce up the sides a little. Tonight we're trying baked corn pudding. Think we will stick to a turkey breast, or maybe a small whole turkey, red potatoes, parsnips and squash. There's an au gratin broccoli dish I want to try. Appetizers will be our usual homemade chex mix, the kale chips the kids love, stuffed celery, cheese/crackers/pepperoni platter, and fruit filled fried pastries. Some of the pastries will be cream-cheese filled as well. I will probably have some oven toasted bagel slices with assorted cream cheeses and bruschetta. Some Wii sports fun to help burn off all the calories! Also planning on starting the morning off with some yummy mimosas and hot chocolate with peppermint schnapps. Zach has a football game Thanksgiving morning and Kayla has to be at work at 2 am on Black Friday, so I think Mitch and I will maybe have a Black Friday early morning date???
I'm tired now from all the pre-planning!
I'm hoping to get the tree up this weekend. I like to do it the day after Thanksgiving but I don't have Fridays off these days so if I do it this week/or weekend, I can focus next week on planning a nice holiday for us. I need to thoroughly clean the fridge and kitchen and put some of Bella's toys in her bedroom for the next few weeks to make room for the tree. The way we have the living room set up now, I think we will only lose one seat to the tree for television viewing. I'm trying a few side dish recipes this week to possibly add to the holiday menu. Typically I focus more on appetizers and have a basic traditional holiday meal. Think we will stick to that plan but I want to spruce up the sides a little. Tonight we're trying baked corn pudding. Think we will stick to a turkey breast, or maybe a small whole turkey, red potatoes, parsnips and squash. There's an au gratin broccoli dish I want to try. Appetizers will be our usual homemade chex mix, the kale chips the kids love, stuffed celery, cheese/crackers/pepperoni platter, and fruit filled fried pastries. Some of the pastries will be cream-cheese filled as well. I will probably have some oven toasted bagel slices with assorted cream cheeses and bruschetta. Some Wii sports fun to help burn off all the calories! Also planning on starting the morning off with some yummy mimosas and hot chocolate with peppermint schnapps. Zach has a football game Thanksgiving morning and Kayla has to be at work at 2 am on Black Friday, so I think Mitch and I will maybe have a Black Friday early morning date???
I'm tired now from all the pre-planning!
Friday, November 11, 2011
11/11/11
I have a lot to get done before three. Work out, shower, tan, get Zach's uniform washed, get ready for work. I hope to get the house in tip top shape this weekend because the holiday decorations will be going up soon. I also want to get dinners planned for next week, Thanksgiving menu items bought, and figure out a plan for making ornaments with Bella. I also have some ideas for some wooden toys/puzzles from the unfinished wood store. This probably means my printer needs to be working...INK...kind of like the wooden picture/name blocks for Bella but flat, to create a memory game for her, with pictures of her family and Sierra and some of her favorite book characters. I also want some wooden ornaments for her to paint. I still have Kayla's from when she was the same age.
Time's a wasting!
Time's a wasting!
Thursday, November 10, 2011
11/10/11
My paper work for today was done yesterday. Gives me a few extra minutes to myself. I got my cardio and bath done early. This time change is working for my morning routines however with the sun going down by 4:30, I'm yawning by dinnertime.
I'm reading Catching Fire which is book two of The Hunger Games...hooked on the trilogy! Movie comes out March 2012! I will read the final book probably next week and then on to the Stieg Larsson series. Just about every book I've read this year has been or will be made into a movie...Water for Elephants, Sarah's Key, The Help, The Hunger Games, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo...not sure about Sister. Then I have two John Irving books to read, a Pat Conroy, the new Stephen King, and maybe finally The Life of Pi...still haven't got to that one yet!!! I need a reading vacation. No tech gadgets, except my Kindle. Just books, food, and baths. And a recumbent bike so I can read while I work out if I want.
My husband and I are having a cleaning weekend! Yay! I'm so excited! That's NOT sarcasm!
I'm reading Catching Fire which is book two of The Hunger Games...hooked on the trilogy! Movie comes out March 2012! I will read the final book probably next week and then on to the Stieg Larsson series. Just about every book I've read this year has been or will be made into a movie...Water for Elephants, Sarah's Key, The Help, The Hunger Games, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo...not sure about Sister. Then I have two John Irving books to read, a Pat Conroy, the new Stephen King, and maybe finally The Life of Pi...still haven't got to that one yet!!! I need a reading vacation. No tech gadgets, except my Kindle. Just books, food, and baths. And a recumbent bike so I can read while I work out if I want.
My husband and I are having a cleaning weekend! Yay! I'm so excited! That's NOT sarcasm!
Wednesday, November 09, 2011
11/9/11
Today promises to be another gorgeous one, weather-wise. Supposed to be in the 60s all next week. My kind of November! Thanksgiving is 2 weeks from tomorrow! I'm going to spend some time this weekend figuring out the menu and then spend some time cleaning. Christmas is in six weeks!!! Unbelievable! I'm hoping for an early and incredibly warm spring! Last year, it was cold literally up to the day it decided to get HOT. AC ran steady till October! I want days just like yesterday. Warm enough for shorts. Comfortable. Perfect. When the sun is so nice you could just curl up and take a nap.
So I jogged 3 miles yesterday. My hip/thigh/calves are killing me today. Think I will stick to the recumbent bike tonight. Wearing my Capri length leggings, my denim tunic and flip flops!!! Staff meeting, David, and then home to wait for my husband so we can figure out dinner!
So I jogged 3 miles yesterday. My hip/thigh/calves are killing me today. Think I will stick to the recumbent bike tonight. Wearing my Capri length leggings, my denim tunic and flip flops!!! Staff meeting, David, and then home to wait for my husband so we can figure out dinner!
Tuesday, November 08, 2011
Gorgeous November Day
Bella and I spent a couple of hours at the beach today. It was just so nice and peaceful! We came home, had some lunch. She WAS napping. One of her famous 20 minute naps...she waits till I'm settled in to read or blog and her eyes open up!
Monday, November 07, 2011
11/7/11
I might actually get back on the right sleep schedule! I was up at 6:30 this morning. Working out by 7. Hopefully tonight I will be out around 10-ish. I took a few days off from working out last week. I do not feel guilty at all. I've been at it every day since March, except for a day or two when I've been sick, and the last three months, I've consistently done 2 hours of cardio per day. I needed the break. I needed to get some food in me. Right now, I'm focused on getting a lot more fruit in me whether I want to eat or not. I'm pretty good with veggies. I eat a wide variety of vegetables but often prefer to take my fruit in juice form. I also need to get back into monitoring my water intake. I know half my headaches are from inadequate hydration. I ate an orange last night and I'm quite proud of myself. I hate the texture of pulp/skins/seeds etc and like my fruit peeled/seeded/skinned etc. I choked down the orange, pulp and all anyway, knowing I was doing a good thing for my body.
So all my small jeans fit. Glad I hung onto them! I removed them from my closet last March but held out hope I'd get back into them. I also wore jeans every day last week for a couple of reasons. 1.) I have SO many. Way less than before, but probably still >15 and <20. That would be greater than and less than respectively. 2.) I wear a lot of leggings, yoga pants, butt hugging sweats because they're comfy, I drive a lot and chase after an 18 month old several days per week. They look awesome but don't offer any kind of discipline as far as weight control. Too tight jeans? Muffin top? All incentives to keep on working out, also a consistent reminder to stand up straight, abs and butt tucked. 3.) Somehow I've turned into the person for whom a pair of jeans is dressing up! If I'm going to be teaching again I need to get back into professional wardrobe mode (super yuck) and have my jeans actually be casual wear and my workout attire be lazy Sunday wear or actually *gasp* workout attire!!!
Plus I don't lie when I tell you when Zach and I went to the movies to see Paranormal Activity 3 the night it opened, EVERY girl in line had on yoga pants and Uggs. I love my Uggs but I ONLY wear them with jeans now. I remarked kind of loudly about why people complain about wearing uniforms to school and how guys can even tell girls apart these days. Zach laughed and said it is even worse AT school and not just in a line waiting for the movie to open.
Not opposed to leggings or yoga wear...certainly not opposed to my Uggs...just not going to pair them up, as that was so two years ago...yoga pants with cute flats or sneakers, paired with a cute tunic or under a skirt and my Uggs with jeans.
Another reason I like pricier shoes...my Uggs are not the cheaper Classic version, so I don't see a ton of people wearing mine. The Frye Veronica slouch boot is my major Christmas want, and with the $328 price tag, I'm sure I won't see them on EVERYONE and the average wearer gets 10 years out of a pair of Frye boots so I can justify the price...I can easily spend a $100 or more on a pair of boots every year or get a good quality pair and make them last. And vintage Frye? Just like vintage Levis. You never throw them away. Find a good cobbler.
So all my small jeans fit. Glad I hung onto them! I removed them from my closet last March but held out hope I'd get back into them. I also wore jeans every day last week for a couple of reasons. 1.) I have SO many. Way less than before, but probably still >15 and <20. That would be greater than and less than respectively. 2.) I wear a lot of leggings, yoga pants, butt hugging sweats because they're comfy, I drive a lot and chase after an 18 month old several days per week. They look awesome but don't offer any kind of discipline as far as weight control. Too tight jeans? Muffin top? All incentives to keep on working out, also a consistent reminder to stand up straight, abs and butt tucked. 3.) Somehow I've turned into the person for whom a pair of jeans is dressing up! If I'm going to be teaching again I need to get back into professional wardrobe mode (super yuck) and have my jeans actually be casual wear and my workout attire be lazy Sunday wear or actually *gasp* workout attire!!!
Plus I don't lie when I tell you when Zach and I went to the movies to see Paranormal Activity 3 the night it opened, EVERY girl in line had on yoga pants and Uggs. I love my Uggs but I ONLY wear them with jeans now. I remarked kind of loudly about why people complain about wearing uniforms to school and how guys can even tell girls apart these days. Zach laughed and said it is even worse AT school and not just in a line waiting for the movie to open.
Not opposed to leggings or yoga wear...certainly not opposed to my Uggs...just not going to pair them up, as that was so two years ago...yoga pants with cute flats or sneakers, paired with a cute tunic or under a skirt and my Uggs with jeans.
Another reason I like pricier shoes...my Uggs are not the cheaper Classic version, so I don't see a ton of people wearing mine. The Frye Veronica slouch boot is my major Christmas want, and with the $328 price tag, I'm sure I won't see them on EVERYONE and the average wearer gets 10 years out of a pair of Frye boots so I can justify the price...I can easily spend a $100 or more on a pair of boots every year or get a good quality pair and make them last. And vintage Frye? Just like vintage Levis. You never throw them away. Find a good cobbler.
Thursday, November 03, 2011
11/3/11
Incredibly super crappy day. Bella is starting day three of being sick so she and Kayla are headed to the Walk-In. I have to pick Janice up in Jamestown, then pick Kayla and Bella up in NK, and hopefully by that time they've already called the prescription in, if there is one, and I will take them to pick it up, then they will have to take the bus home as Janice and I have to head to Newport. My guess is ear infection. If it is, this will be her first, so that's pretty much a guarantee she will be put on antibiotics. Thank God. I doubt it is another UTI only because the fever isn't as high and does come down with Advil. My kids never had ear infections, though they still manage to get Swimmer's Ear most summers. Hayley had a bad year around age 7 or 8 when she got two or three ear infections that year but she was old enough to not cry all night/all day long. Bella is CRANKY, barely eating, still drinking, and has zero patience for any kind of malfunctioning toy. I think we've waited out the fever long enough; in another day or two, I will be the one crying.
I already took my shower but I can't seem to get more motivated than that at this present moment. I will need to get my butt in gear. I have to leave here by 1:20 the latest. Just not feeling life right now. I'm feeling sleep. Lots and lots of dreamless sleep please.
I already took my shower but I can't seem to get more motivated than that at this present moment. I will need to get my butt in gear. I have to leave here by 1:20 the latest. Just not feeling life right now. I'm feeling sleep. Lots and lots of dreamless sleep please.
Wednesday, November 02, 2011
November 2, 2011
Bella is feeling much better. The fever is gone for now and is at least coming and going now, whereas yesterday, it never got below 100.9 even WITH Advil. It was breaking my heart when she didn't want to do anything but sit and cuddle all day. Whiny, independent girl is back and driving me crazy!
Work for two hours, then meeting from 3-5. Blah di blechedy blah. I got nothing accomplished yesterday because of the sick girl. Tuesdays I normally catch up on a few things, make a nice dinner, etc. This morning, I worked out, cleaned myself up and am feeling halfway normal. Going tanning before work. Stayed up last night reading more of The Hunger Games. Loving it!!!
Work for two hours, then meeting from 3-5. Blah di blechedy blah. I got nothing accomplished yesterday because of the sick girl. Tuesdays I normally catch up on a few things, make a nice dinner, etc. This morning, I worked out, cleaned myself up and am feeling halfway normal. Going tanning before work. Stayed up last night reading more of The Hunger Games. Loving it!!!
Tuesday, November 01, 2011
Happy November!
Should be reading instead of blogging...I'm currently reading The Help and The Hunger Games on my kindle. Reading A Tree Grows in Brooklyn in hard copy. Totally loving The Hunger Games!!! Definitely going to add that and Sarah's Key to my Holocaust unit.
A cold rainy busy weekend! We attended Zach's last Homecoming football game, but left after the senior recognition because of the rain. We also enjoyed our stay at the hotel, complete with in-room jacuzzi. Temporpedic bed was very UN-comfy!!! But the company was perfect! Glad the weather is back in the 60s and that Bella didn't have to trick or treat in any kind of snow. Love snow but not till after Thanksgiving thanks!
A cold rainy busy weekend! We attended Zach's last Homecoming football game, but left after the senior recognition because of the rain. We also enjoyed our stay at the hotel, complete with in-room jacuzzi. Temporpedic bed was very UN-comfy!!! But the company was perfect! Glad the weather is back in the 60s and that Bella didn't have to trick or treat in any kind of snow. Love snow but not till after Thanksgiving thanks!
Halloween Hangover
Today she's not feeling so well. Staying home with her Nonni, cuddling on the couch, watching movies...
Our Sweet Little Ladybug
Bella picked up the trick or treating thing pretty quickly. She was at it from 5-8:30! Even walking the whole way herself except for the return trip home (thanks, Aunt Hayley!). Not only did she get tons of candy, she came home with a pumpkin and a playdate for next weekend! She quickly got the hang of knocking on doors, saying "Hi-iii" in her sing- songy way, being invited into almost every home to see doll collections, stuffed animal collections, patted and hugged every dog, hugged and kissed babies...yes, most definitely a future politician!
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Grrrrr!
Had a nice post and blogger is messing up! The second time this week. I've now switched back to the old version. The new thing was CRAP on my iPad! How's that for a review. I will try to post when I get back from my mini vacation.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Being a Turkey
We Irish sure make cute kiddos!!! Those big eyes and button nose and cheeks just perfect for kissing!!!
Friday, October 28, 2011
Monday, October 24, 2011
10/24/11
Halloween is almost here. Thanksgiving is in 4 weeks and Christmas in 8! I already ordered one of my husband's birthday presents, which is also in November.
I slept very well last night. Slept in till 8:30. Bella slept in till after 9. Got one workout in. Went tanning. Going to go to work in an hour. I think this week for dinners we are going to have Italian stew, Thanksgiving sandwiches, chicken veggie au gratin, and pizza. Friday is fast food. I work Saturday night and Mitch and I will be away Sunday/Monday in our fancy hotel room celebrating soccer season being OVER. Wine, music, lots of food, two person whirlpool and plenty of hot sex. Perfect day with my husband.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
10/23/11
I slept so bad last night!!! Took a little bit of a nap this late afternoon. I made coconut chicken curry for dinner tonight. Kayla texted me from work and said it was great and that she loved me. It put me to sleep. Zach and Bella are sleeping too! It was almost the feeling you get after eating turkey. My husband is coming home AND we have plans for next weekend. Can't wait!!!
Friday, October 21, 2011
Happy 18 Months Bella!!!
A year and a half this little wonderful creature has been in our lives. I just can't express in words how much fun she is these days, as she leaves babyhood behind. She's had little interest in being a baby since day one, so she's not looking back. She just moves on from one adventure to the next. She has the most beautiful, expressive, shiny eyes I've ever seen, with a grin, if you're blessed to see one, that can make anyone smile. She has an attitude as big and volatile as Mt. Etna, so she's often more difficult than not, which is just fine with me. She is not scared of anything! Nothing spleeny about this kid! She's even gotten over her fear of vacuums, golf clubs (we don't know why, other than Zach's bag crashed to the floor once) and the pots and pans cupboard. She loves to spin till she's dizzy, and she still loves music and singing and dancing. She also loves loves loves her books. She literally spends most of her day being read to or flipping through the pages and reading aloud to herself. While shopping, she says hi in a sing songy voice to EVEYONE, and Nonni likes almost NO ONE, so this has caused me to loosen up a little and be a bit more friendly to complete strangers. They immediately fall in love with her, after she says hi to them. I've decided she's probably going to be a movie star or a politician. She needs to put her dramatics and manipulative skills to work for her.
Zach and I went to see Paranormal Activity 3. It was a lot of fun! Love being in a large group of people with everyone screaming at the same time. Increases the suspense and drama. I also spent my gift card I got from work and bought a new pair of sneaks!!! I really like them. Nikes of course. They're not the ones I plan on getting for working out, although these will work till then. The ones I want for my workouts are at the actual Nike store and are well over a hundred dollars, but these ones are good every day kinda sneaks. Silver, with florescent blue and green trim. Flashy!
I really need to get my day started. I'm already about two hours behind schedule. Somehow, I think the day will just continue on whether I'm ready for it or not!
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Not Sure...
...about the new blogger interface I switched to. It's acting wonky with my iPad.
First workout completed. One more to go. Listening to some tunes. Kayla and Bella just left to run some errands. Last night my husband was so nice and took Bella with him to run errands so I had about two hours all alone! No Zach, no Bella, nobody but ME! I've never enjoyed being alone so much in my life. I thank my husband for recognizing that that was exactly just what I needed. Just a few minutes to myself.
Salve tonight. Home around 9:15. Paranormal Activity 3 at midnight at the movie theater. So excited to see it. The previews look even scarier than the first two movies.
So I've been kind of drooling over the new iPad. It draws me to it every time I walk by. A nice white one, like my iPhone. I LOVE that it has the front and back cameras. In fact, my only complaint I've ever had regarding my first gen iPad was the absence of cameras. Ok enough drooling for now.
Christmas is in 65 days. For the most part, in talking with the kids, we've agreed that a smallish Christmas (movies, books, games) is a good idea. Stuff to keep us all busy during the winter. There really isn't much out there that we don't already have. Electronically speaking. They still asked that I continue the tradition of getting them new coffee mugs and stockings full of different teas, flavored coffees and hot cocoas. I've found some books with little plastic CDs for Bella and I'd like us to take her to Providence Place mall to be terrorized by Santa and for her to go to Build A Bear and pick out what she wants. I think Mitch and I will probably have more fun than her! Puzzles. She needs wooden puzzles. Walmart has no selection, so I will have to go to Toys r Us.
As for my husband, I think he wants a new white iPad. And it's up to me to make sure he gets what he wants! :)
Sunday, October 16, 2011
10/16/11
Worst night's sleep EVER!!! I'm in bed on this pretty sunny day curled up with my blanket cuddling with Bella, who isn't feeling so well. We're watching...wait for it...The Wizard of Oz! I have a feeling I will sleep well tonight!
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Wow!!!
I'm actually blogging on my Macbook! I can't remember when I've actually typed using a keyboard and not a touch pad. I have to say, as much as I hate auto-correct on my iPhone and iPad, I'm so used to it that the laptop feels awkward!
So glad I can drink a glass of wine tomorrow evening.
I got a workout and a half in today.
So glad I can drink a glass of wine tomorrow evening.
I got a workout and a half in today.
Friday, October 14, 2011
10/14/11
Where exactly did the week go?
I've been up since 6:30 or so. Glad I got my 2 hours of cardio in early because I'm going to probably crap out early myself.
Going to hop in the tub. Tan. Clean a teeny bit. Go to work. Big blah and boooooooooo hiss on that.
42 days till Black Friday.
Another very warm humid day here in South County. It's better than cold but I have some great clothes I'd like to be sporting but it's still too warm for them!!!
In other news, our little Miss Bella peed on her potty yesterday!!! She will be 18 months on the 21st. Next Friday. Anyway, her chair is in the bathroom (duh) and she goes in when we go in. This time she actually peed! So she got her exploding fist bump, since she prefers this over a high five (thanks, Uncle Zach) and lots and lots of praise. We're NOT officially potty training yet, but this was a great step in the right direction. I waited till my kids showed interest and they pretty much potty trained themselves, that's how easy it was. They were all completely potty trained by age two. I was also a stay at home mommy at that time, so that probably helped make it so easy.
I've been up since 6:30 or so. Glad I got my 2 hours of cardio in early because I'm going to probably crap out early myself.
Going to hop in the tub. Tan. Clean a teeny bit. Go to work. Big blah and boooooooooo hiss on that.
42 days till Black Friday.
Another very warm humid day here in South County. It's better than cold but I have some great clothes I'd like to be sporting but it's still too warm for them!!!
In other news, our little Miss Bella peed on her potty yesterday!!! She will be 18 months on the 21st. Next Friday. Anyway, her chair is in the bathroom (duh) and she goes in when we go in. This time she actually peed! So she got her exploding fist bump, since she prefers this over a high five (thanks, Uncle Zach) and lots and lots of praise. We're NOT officially potty training yet, but this was a great step in the right direction. I waited till my kids showed interest and they pretty much potty trained themselves, that's how easy it was. They were all completely potty trained by age two. I was also a stay at home mommy at that time, so that probably helped make it so easy.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
10/13/11
First hour of cardio completed! I'm going to squeeze another hour in somewhere today. I currently get in between 12 and 14 hours of cardio per week. Pretty proud of myself and definitely loving the results!!! Once you get over that slump where everything seems to just be maintaining, you start seeing visible results again, almost daily. Plus, I'm going by how I'm feeling more than just rigidly maintaining a schedule. Some days I feel like I can do more and on those days, I do. Some days, especially if I'm sick, I need a break, so I take one. WITHOUT FEELING GUILTY or letting it defeat me.
Going to be a long night but Kayla will have the house cleaned and dinner ready (taco soup) when I get home.
Going to be a long night but Kayla will have the house cleaned and dinner ready (taco soup) when I get home.
Monday, October 10, 2011
10/10/11
Happy day off to everyone!
It is 10:40 and my workout was done early. I loaded some new pics to Flickr and posted them to the blog. Now I'm just lounging in my comfy bed. I suppose I should get up and go outside to enjoy this beautiful day!
I was feeling quite poorly the last few days, bad cough, horrible headache, stomachache. Today, I feel great! Headache is gone. Stomachache gone! I'm not sure I coughed much once I finally fell asleep. I did wake up in the middle of the night soaked in sweat. This is what happens when I'm sick. I don't feel better till I finally "sweat" it out.
I have to get gas. Get Hayley back to school. Spend an hour or two with Janice. I NEED a curtain rod. I have to fix the curtains in my living room before I have a coronary. I will probably tan. Figure out dinner.
It is 10:40 and my workout was done early. I loaded some new pics to Flickr and posted them to the blog. Now I'm just lounging in my comfy bed. I suppose I should get up and go outside to enjoy this beautiful day!
I was feeling quite poorly the last few days, bad cough, horrible headache, stomachache. Today, I feel great! Headache is gone. Stomachache gone! I'm not sure I coughed much once I finally fell asleep. I did wake up in the middle of the night soaked in sweat. This is what happens when I'm sick. I don't feel better till I finally "sweat" it out.
I have to get gas. Get Hayley back to school. Spend an hour or two with Janice. I NEED a curtain rod. I have to fix the curtains in my living room before I have a coronary. I will probably tan. Figure out dinner.
17 Months
There aren't many kids this young who will sit still for an entire movie. Hands down, this is her favorite.
Friday, October 07, 2011
10/7/11
The BAD mood seems to have lifted a little bit. I think I'm just missing my husband. I asked if we could go on a date one of these days. I really hate when they're in season. Only a few more weeks left and I get him back. I miss him so much when he's not around but then he comes home and every little thing drives me crazy.
This weekend is going to be beautiful. Definitely laying in the sun on Sunday!!!
Freaky "dream" last night. Only I don't think I was dreaming. I felt as if a demon was holding me against the bed, hands around my neck, preventing me from sitting up. I also could not talk or open my eyes...creepy. My neck, shoulders and head ache so bad today that I've had to take Tylenol all day.
I do get visited in dreams, usually by recently passed loved ones, and then they're off and I don't dream about them again. And I'm hugely interested in anything paranormal and typically not scared of any of it. Last night upset me though because I was prevented from speaking Jesus' name and when I would yell it in my head, the "demon" would like squeeze my temple area so hard that I felt like my head was going to explode. If I didn't try to speak Jesus' name then the pressure would stop a bit. Like I said, creepy!!!
This weekend is going to be beautiful. Definitely laying in the sun on Sunday!!!
Freaky "dream" last night. Only I don't think I was dreaming. I felt as if a demon was holding me against the bed, hands around my neck, preventing me from sitting up. I also could not talk or open my eyes...creepy. My neck, shoulders and head ache so bad today that I've had to take Tylenol all day.
I do get visited in dreams, usually by recently passed loved ones, and then they're off and I don't dream about them again. And I'm hugely interested in anything paranormal and typically not scared of any of it. Last night upset me though because I was prevented from speaking Jesus' name and when I would yell it in my head, the "demon" would like squeeze my temple area so hard that I felt like my head was going to explode. If I didn't try to speak Jesus' name then the pressure would stop a bit. Like I said, creepy!!!
Thursday, October 06, 2011
10/6/11
I fell asleep last night with the news the Steve Jobs passed away. We knew it was coming. He's been extremely ill since 2004 but has always managed to rally and miraculously bounce back. That's what heroes do. Depressing to think that even billions of dollars can't keep you on this earth when it's your time. Because of Steve Jobs, my life will never be the same. We've been an all Mac household since 2002. Mitch tried to bring his Dell in and it experienced a devastating and permanent crash. Should have bought a Mac. The few extra hundred dollars you might spend is definitely worth the piece of mind that I have found with my MacBook. With my iBook. With my iPods. With my iPad, which I'm currently blogging on, and of course with my most favorite item I have ever, ever, ever owned...my iPhone. I know the company will continue and has been in safe hands for the last decade, but I can't help but think that while Apple will still prove to be a visionary leader amongst its competitors, it would have been just that much better if he were still with us.
In other news, I really wish Mac would make a reliable car. Mine's been "ok" since the disaster of spring 2011...but front brakes need to be done. I did clean it out yesterday. My cars are like my purses. The bigger they are, the more junk I can manage to cram in them. It would be nice if a certain husband would offer to let his wife use the Tahoe on Saturday so she can have an anxiety-free drive and possibly even a good time.
Salve starts tonight, which means I won't be home till 9ish, but I will be able to get some reading done, Bella-free. They are actually running errands today, so Kayla can take her class, and I'm enjoying a morning ALONE! Amazing. I worked out without having to hold Bella and her assortment of toys. I picked up her toys without her taking them back out of her toy box. Unfortunately, I now miss her! Tuesday night we had THE battle of wills. I have never met someone so stubborn in my entire life. She refuses to acknowledge defeat or to seem weak, unless that gets her her way faster. She is smart, calculating, manipulative, and quite controlling. It is like looking in a very flattering mirror. HRC look out! Bella is on your heels!
In other news, I really wish Mac would make a reliable car. Mine's been "ok" since the disaster of spring 2011...but front brakes need to be done. I did clean it out yesterday. My cars are like my purses. The bigger they are, the more junk I can manage to cram in them. It would be nice if a certain husband would offer to let his wife use the Tahoe on Saturday so she can have an anxiety-free drive and possibly even a good time.
Salve starts tonight, which means I won't be home till 9ish, but I will be able to get some reading done, Bella-free. They are actually running errands today, so Kayla can take her class, and I'm enjoying a morning ALONE! Amazing. I worked out without having to hold Bella and her assortment of toys. I picked up her toys without her taking them back out of her toy box. Unfortunately, I now miss her! Tuesday night we had THE battle of wills. I have never met someone so stubborn in my entire life. She refuses to acknowledge defeat or to seem weak, unless that gets her her way faster. She is smart, calculating, manipulative, and quite controlling. It is like looking in a very flattering mirror. HRC look out! Bella is on your heels!
Wednesday, October 05, 2011
10/5/11
I think fall is finally here! Low 70s and low humidity and SUN for at least the next seven days!!! I'm going to spend about 12 hours in Waterville (on Saturday) and then home to enjoy some of Rhode Island's best weather. I love a nice warm, dry spring, which we did not get this year, and a nice warm and dry fall, which we haven't had yet, but I'm hoping today through next week, it'll finally get here. The humidity has been crazy crazy crazy. The AC is usually off by now and the windows usually open.
I got excused from the meeting late today to take someone in for eye surgery. Either option will be equally boring, but at least now I can get some paper work done.
My bleak, grumpy mood might be lifting. I don't want to jinx myself, but I'm feeling better in general. My cold/allergies really sap any extra energy and creativity and leave me exhausted during the day and awake coughing all night. Throw in a sudden, unexpected death, pay cuts at work, the realization that our life will be changing greatly in the next year and the fact that we're currently living in the house from Hell, and well there ya go! My bad mood. Guess I don't need medication after all. Sometimes one's bad mood is very equal to one's problems.
My workout is done, going tanning in a little while, then off to work I go. And it's Hump Day!!!
I got excused from the meeting late today to take someone in for eye surgery. Either option will be equally boring, but at least now I can get some paper work done.
My bleak, grumpy mood might be lifting. I don't want to jinx myself, but I'm feeling better in general. My cold/allergies really sap any extra energy and creativity and leave me exhausted during the day and awake coughing all night. Throw in a sudden, unexpected death, pay cuts at work, the realization that our life will be changing greatly in the next year and the fact that we're currently living in the house from Hell, and well there ya go! My bad mood. Guess I don't need medication after all. Sometimes one's bad mood is very equal to one's problems.
My workout is done, going tanning in a little while, then off to work I go. And it's Hump Day!!!
Tuesday, October 04, 2011
I got an amazing amount of stuff done today! Dishes washed, floors swept, mopped, vacuumed. Bella slept for exactly one hour. 11:44 to 12:44. Curtains were washed but I screwed up the curtain rod! Grrrrrrrrr! Cabinets wiped down. Counters washed. Couches vacuumed. Toys put away. Bathroom cleaned and sanitized. We listened to music just about all day. Now we're watching Mars needs Moms.
10/4/11
I am in such a bad mood. Been that way for a few days now. Just seems to be getting worse.
Today, I'm going to workout and then clean the house, fall cleaning, if you will, and crank some music.
Can't wait for Saturday. Day off. Mixed with a friend or two and it just might be what I need so I can stop feeling like my life is this blah thing that just keeps on keeping on.
Today, I'm going to workout and then clean the house, fall cleaning, if you will, and crank some music.
Can't wait for Saturday. Day off. Mixed with a friend or two and it just might be what I need so I can stop feeling like my life is this blah thing that just keeps on keeping on.
Sunday, October 02, 2011
10/2/11
I would have done just about anything to sleep in this morning! I absolutely could not fall asleep last night! I was awake till 12:30. That is RARE for me. Can't remember the last time I saw 12:30! Shouldn't have any troubles tonight!
The agenda today consists of cleaning, working out, tanning, and making a yummy dinner.
The agenda today consists of cleaning, working out, tanning, and making a yummy dinner.
Saturday, October 01, 2011
Happy (?) October
Exhausted already and I only got up about an hour and a half ago! Cardio done. Going tanning in a few. Coffee consumed. Lost another pound, so yay for that!
Friday, September 30, 2011
9/30/11
Goodbye September! The only good thing about this month really is our anniversary. October is kind of blah too, except for Halloween. After Halloween, November and December race by, January is long and boring, with nothing exciting, then my favorite day, Valentine's!!! I loved the holidays when I was a kid. My parents, grandparents and aunts and uncles always made them so much fun for us, teeming with goodies and traditions. Every year, even once I was an adult with my own children, my grandfather's Halloween costumes and "scary" antics would get more and more elaborate. On Valentine's day, my dad always got me lots of fun stuff, playdoh, paints, boxes of chocolate just for me! And Valentine's day at school was THE best! I loved getting all those Valentine's and as I got older, my mother always made me help my little brother do all of his. Even St. Patrick's Day at school was fun!
It's nice to think back on all those good times.
I currently have a Bella sitting in my lap. This is all she wants to do right now apparently. She keeps hugging me and kissing my cheek. What a sweetie!
This week went by so fast! I was invited to a wedding shower for a friend next Saturday in Waterville. I think I'm going to go. I took the 8th off but really wasn't feeling it one way or another, but I think it will be good to get away for one night. Alone. Mitch gets to travel with the team, and while I'm supposed to believe he hates it, I can't help thinking a night not coming home to the never ending chores must be nice. Plus, when he's gone, he can relax knowing I'm here dealing with all the crap.
It's nice to think back on all those good times.
I currently have a Bella sitting in my lap. This is all she wants to do right now apparently. She keeps hugging me and kissing my cheek. What a sweetie!
This week went by so fast! I was invited to a wedding shower for a friend next Saturday in Waterville. I think I'm going to go. I took the 8th off but really wasn't feeling it one way or another, but I think it will be good to get away for one night. Alone. Mitch gets to travel with the team, and while I'm supposed to believe he hates it, I can't help thinking a night not coming home to the never ending chores must be nice. Plus, when he's gone, he can relax knowing I'm here dealing with all the crap.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Wow!
Got my workout, shower, and make up done while Bella amused herself. Swept, did the dishes, and finally sat down long enough for her to fall asleep in my arms. She's now napping on the couch and I've bleached the cupboards, walls, counters, and baseboards. When she gets up, she's going to have lunch, a bath and then maybe we will take our walk now that it is sunny out. We will have dinner, she will play with Zachary and then bedtime in Nonni and Pop's bed till her Mommy gets home. Took a little bit, but Bella and I have our Tuesday routine DOWN! Just this past week though she's really gotten out of the baby stage. As Zach says, she's like a little human now!
9/27/11
I completed my two hours of cardio pretty early on yesterday so last night while dinner was cooking I went for a walk too! I slept pretty darn well last night! Today I will be lucky if I get a workout in. I have Bella till 10:30 pm. She might let me squeeze my bootcamp booty into the day, but that's a wildcard. However, she WILL let me hold her all day and dance my ass off! The sun is supposed to come out this afternoon, so we will probably go for a walk, too!
I need coffee. I need to go hug my love bug. I hear her crying.
I need coffee. I need to go hug my love bug. I hear her crying.
Monday, September 26, 2011
9/26/11
It's going to be another hot and humid day today. Busy, too.
Work has shifted gears. I almost don't even recognize it anymore. Gone are the happy faces of employees who love their jobs and are paid well in wages, bonuses, and benefits. The people who could leave, have. The people for whom these cuts haven't really affected (me included) are staying to ride out the storm. Positions have been completely eliminated. Mileage is capped. What it is boiling down to is more work, less pay. Meetings that were so important have been deemed nonessential. In services are now being done online. Granted, some of these changes are actually for the good, in the sense that after the storm, I think a few of the practices should be left in place.
I'm just sad for my friends who these changes affect significantly. It is scary too. All of a sudden, I'm senior staff. We're in the part of the Monopoly game where you have to sell off a few houses and maybe mortgage a property or two till you pass Go a couple of times. Business wise, I might consider these exciting times, if my heart weren't so heavy for my friends.
Work has shifted gears. I almost don't even recognize it anymore. Gone are the happy faces of employees who love their jobs and are paid well in wages, bonuses, and benefits. The people who could leave, have. The people for whom these cuts haven't really affected (me included) are staying to ride out the storm. Positions have been completely eliminated. Mileage is capped. What it is boiling down to is more work, less pay. Meetings that were so important have been deemed nonessential. In services are now being done online. Granted, some of these changes are actually for the good, in the sense that after the storm, I think a few of the practices should be left in place.
I'm just sad for my friends who these changes affect significantly. It is scary too. All of a sudden, I'm senior staff. We're in the part of the Monopoly game where you have to sell off a few houses and maybe mortgage a property or two till you pass Go a couple of times. Business wise, I might consider these exciting times, if my heart weren't so heavy for my friends.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
9/25/11
Can't believe September 2011 is coming to a close!
What a great day! First, finally a day off!!! Second, got TWO hours of cardio in. We're having meatball subs for dinner, with fries and pumpkin cookies for dessert. Yummy. Also going to enjoy some wine and some music before calling it a day.
What a great day! First, finally a day off!!! Second, got TWO hours of cardio in. We're having meatball subs for dinner, with fries and pumpkin cookies for dessert. Yummy. Also going to enjoy some wine and some music before calling it a day.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
9/24/11
Blech. I made the mistake that I occasionally do from time to time,and that is check my archives. I wanted to see what I was doing 6 years ago.
The only good news from doing that is being reminded how lucky I am to have such a wonderful husband. He is perfect. It makes me sad to think I wasted any time on anybody else.
The only good news from doing that is being reminded how lucky I am to have such a wonderful husband. He is perfect. It makes me sad to think I wasted any time on anybody else.
Friday, September 23, 2011
Merry Christmas to ME!!!
ALL my jeans fit now. Even my skinny ones. And they even look better on me now than they did when they were part of my regular every day wardrobe.
Really glad I stuck with my diet/exercise program, even though the scale never seems to budge! I chose to not get discouraged and not let others discourage me, and decided to let how I was feeling, as opposed to what I was weighing, determine if it was working or not. A tape measure has become my best friend. Still wish the scale and I were on better terms, but muscle weighs more than fat and takes up much less space. I've only lost 11 pounds total, but the proof is in my clothes. And it took FOREVER to lose those 11 pounds. Ideally, I have about 15 more to go, if I go by scale standards. Otherwise, I think I look great, and I feel great, so we shall see. If I get much smaller, I will need new clothes. I love the collection I have now. That should make my husband happy. That, and me sleeping naked.
Really glad I stuck with my diet/exercise program, even though the scale never seems to budge! I chose to not get discouraged and not let others discourage me, and decided to let how I was feeling, as opposed to what I was weighing, determine if it was working or not. A tape measure has become my best friend. Still wish the scale and I were on better terms, but muscle weighs more than fat and takes up much less space. I've only lost 11 pounds total, but the proof is in my clothes. And it took FOREVER to lose those 11 pounds. Ideally, I have about 15 more to go, if I go by scale standards. Otherwise, I think I look great, and I feel great, so we shall see. If I get much smaller, I will need new clothes. I love the collection I have now. That should make my husband happy. That, and me sleeping naked.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Went for a nice walk on the beach. Need to recharge a little. I breathe and feel better indoors though. Very muggy and smoggy outside. My eyes and lungs and throat were burning after about a half hour. I have to work for a few hours and then home for some relaxation. Maybe a glass of wine. Doubt I will be able to read. I have Bella till 10:30.
9/21/11
The week is winding down for me. 55 hours worked this week. Beyond done. Not to mention I've been sick, with the two worst days of it being Sunday and Monday, and of course I was having my period to top it all off. Feeling a whole lot better today. Sinuses are draining. My cough is productive. I got my workout in. Currently 100% humidity right now. Yeah, the air is still on and it's the end of September.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
9/18/11
Well I was right about it being a stinky week. Our anniversary was Tuesday. I woke to the news that a very dear friend passed away. Still very much shocked and sad, but Mitch came home early and we spent the day together.
I love my Amazon Kindle very much. I can't believe how light it is! I can read all day and often only put a book down to stop reading to give my cramped hands a break, so I love that this alleviates that. I still love the physicality of books, their smell, how they feel, nothing like a new book, then again, nothing like an old book, but the Kindle will definitely have a place in my life. The simple fact I can hold 3500 books in the palm of my hand and I don't have to buy yet another bookshelf. The kindle version of a book is also cheaper than the paper version and hey, maybe we will save a tree or two.
I have a cold from Hell. We're all fighting one. I've been up since 4:30 because my head and sinuses were killing me and I needed some Tylenol. It is rare that I wake up because I need medicine.
I've been watching lots of infomercials this morning and now I'm watching Mass with a priest with a lisp. All morning I have found I've been turning these infomercials and now the Mass into Saturday Night Live skits. Honestly, the batteries are dead in the remote and there's no way I'm flipping through channels manually. Mass for this former Catholic it is!
Glad it's finally Sunday. I am working this afternoon/night for Lisa. Tomorrow, I get back to my regular schedule. Going to enjoy the brief normality and then Kayla's schedule gets shaken up next week. She will be working days. Good because no late nights with Bella, but a little challenging trying to coordinate but I think it'll actually work out fine so no worrying till I have to. Nobody had better take any more time off here at work. I'm really tapped out but I have a hard time saying no when someone asks me to fill in for them and you can hear the stress in their voice and you know they need the time off. God has given me an abundance of strength and will to perservere and I try to have a positive attitude about the overtime. I try to see the situation as a win/win. The overtime is nice and the big paycheck is always welcome but a regular week is fine with me too because it means I get to spend more time with the family.
We had a great night Friday night. We were all home. Mitch or I didn't have to go back out to pick anyone up, so we opened up a really yummy bottle of red. Zachary wasn't hiding in his room. Bella was being adorable with Mitch and Zachary chasing her around. Then we listened to some music. It was a much needed two hours where we kind of all got recharged. None of us are really feeling great with this cold, so it was nice to just hang out.
The thing I love about this Mass on tv is that it is EXACTLY like Mass at home. Wow. Never really sat and watched it on tv before. It feels like Sundays with Mimi when we would go to church together long before my grandparents started going on Saturday afternoons. I prefer bible study type churches now, but a part of me needs Mass once in awhile, because it is just so familiar that it fills me with wonderful memories of my friends and family. Amazing though how much is autopilot. The priest says his bit, you say yours.
I hope this week proves to be better than last.
I love my Amazon Kindle very much. I can't believe how light it is! I can read all day and often only put a book down to stop reading to give my cramped hands a break, so I love that this alleviates that. I still love the physicality of books, their smell, how they feel, nothing like a new book, then again, nothing like an old book, but the Kindle will definitely have a place in my life. The simple fact I can hold 3500 books in the palm of my hand and I don't have to buy yet another bookshelf. The kindle version of a book is also cheaper than the paper version and hey, maybe we will save a tree or two.
I have a cold from Hell. We're all fighting one. I've been up since 4:30 because my head and sinuses were killing me and I needed some Tylenol. It is rare that I wake up because I need medicine.
I've been watching lots of infomercials this morning and now I'm watching Mass with a priest with a lisp. All morning I have found I've been turning these infomercials and now the Mass into Saturday Night Live skits. Honestly, the batteries are dead in the remote and there's no way I'm flipping through channels manually. Mass for this former Catholic it is!
Glad it's finally Sunday. I am working this afternoon/night for Lisa. Tomorrow, I get back to my regular schedule. Going to enjoy the brief normality and then Kayla's schedule gets shaken up next week. She will be working days. Good because no late nights with Bella, but a little challenging trying to coordinate but I think it'll actually work out fine so no worrying till I have to. Nobody had better take any more time off here at work. I'm really tapped out but I have a hard time saying no when someone asks me to fill in for them and you can hear the stress in their voice and you know they need the time off. God has given me an abundance of strength and will to perservere and I try to have a positive attitude about the overtime. I try to see the situation as a win/win. The overtime is nice and the big paycheck is always welcome but a regular week is fine with me too because it means I get to spend more time with the family.
We had a great night Friday night. We were all home. Mitch or I didn't have to go back out to pick anyone up, so we opened up a really yummy bottle of red. Zachary wasn't hiding in his room. Bella was being adorable with Mitch and Zachary chasing her around. Then we listened to some music. It was a much needed two hours where we kind of all got recharged. None of us are really feeling great with this cold, so it was nice to just hang out.
The thing I love about this Mass on tv is that it is EXACTLY like Mass at home. Wow. Never really sat and watched it on tv before. It feels like Sundays with Mimi when we would go to church together long before my grandparents started going on Saturday afternoons. I prefer bible study type churches now, but a part of me needs Mass once in awhile, because it is just so familiar that it fills me with wonderful memories of my friends and family. Amazing though how much is autopilot. The priest says his bit, you say yours.
I hope this week proves to be better than last.
Monday, September 12, 2011
9/12/11
This is the start of what's likely to be a stinky week. At least I've started it on an energized note. My cardio and shower are done. Going tanning in a bit. Have to drop off my library book. Took a break from DG to read Water for Elephants. Wanted to read it before I accidentally watch the movie. Finished it in less than 8 hours. I had higher hopes for it, since it's widely popular amongst my friends. Good book. I'd have liked it more if I had stumbled upon it and there was no hype. Reminded me of The Notebook. Like I said, a good quick read with memorable characters, perfect length for a transition to screenplay. Doesn't require much of the reader, other than to sit back and enjoy the show.
Back to my agonizing week, with the only good news being Kayla has tomorrow off. Good for a number of reasons. First being, I will only have Bella for a few hours till Kayla gets done testing at the Lincoln campus. God knows how long the bus ride home will be. But it will be before 10 PM at least. Second reason, it's our anniversary tomorrow. Third reason, Mitch won't have to pick her up at 10. Wednesday, staff meeting than work. Thursday, regular schedule. Friday I work with Emily 10-2 then Hopkins 3-8. Ick. Saturday I work 4-the overnight. Sunday I am working 3-the overnight. Ick, ick, ICK!!! At least I might get some overtime out of this.
I really hope I can get a second workout in today.
Back to my agonizing week, with the only good news being Kayla has tomorrow off. Good for a number of reasons. First being, I will only have Bella for a few hours till Kayla gets done testing at the Lincoln campus. God knows how long the bus ride home will be. But it will be before 10 PM at least. Second reason, it's our anniversary tomorrow. Third reason, Mitch won't have to pick her up at 10. Wednesday, staff meeting than work. Thursday, regular schedule. Friday I work with Emily 10-2 then Hopkins 3-8. Ick. Saturday I work 4-the overnight. Sunday I am working 3-the overnight. Ick, ick, ICK!!! At least I might get some overtime out of this.
I really hope I can get a second workout in today.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
9/10/11
Fun date to write today. Tomorrow's won't be of course.
I seem to have lost all motivation. Guess that's what a day off gets you! I'm about 1/2 way done weeding my clothes. Hayley was a big help last night. I sent a bag with her back to school last week and I guess her roommates snagged everything! So I'm doing a more thorough job this weekend. Now I have to go through my dressier shirts and all my jeans.
I have no idea what to get my husband for our anniversary. Maybe we will just have dinner and go shopping. He can buy what he wants. I'm at least kind enough to give him a detailed list so he doesn't wander around aimlessly, wasting money on something I would never use. Yeah, yeah, blah, blah, spare me the "it's the thought that counts" bullshit. Not when you have a joint checking.
I've really want to sign him up for the wines of the month club, but holy expensive. Someday we will be cooler versions of ourselves.
I wore jeans yesterday for the first time in like 4 months. A bit regrettably I might add, as I remembered why fall is a difficult season...cold mornings, very hot afternoons...I was sweltering and grouchy by late afternoon. I still can't understand people who wear jeans/pants all summer. Unless you work in a cold air-conditioned environment all day, put some shorts on, you're making me hot just looking at you!
Still haven't found motivation to leave my cozy bed. Such a beautiful sunny day out, too. Maybe I will go sit outside for a bit before work.
I seem to have lost all motivation. Guess that's what a day off gets you! I'm about 1/2 way done weeding my clothes. Hayley was a big help last night. I sent a bag with her back to school last week and I guess her roommates snagged everything! So I'm doing a more thorough job this weekend. Now I have to go through my dressier shirts and all my jeans.
I have no idea what to get my husband for our anniversary. Maybe we will just have dinner and go shopping. He can buy what he wants. I'm at least kind enough to give him a detailed list so he doesn't wander around aimlessly, wasting money on something I would never use. Yeah, yeah, blah, blah, spare me the "it's the thought that counts" bullshit. Not when you have a joint checking.
I've really want to sign him up for the wines of the month club, but holy expensive. Someday we will be cooler versions of ourselves.
I wore jeans yesterday for the first time in like 4 months. A bit regrettably I might add, as I remembered why fall is a difficult season...cold mornings, very hot afternoons...I was sweltering and grouchy by late afternoon. I still can't understand people who wear jeans/pants all summer. Unless you work in a cold air-conditioned environment all day, put some shorts on, you're making me hot just looking at you!
Still haven't found motivation to leave my cozy bed. Such a beautiful sunny day out, too. Maybe I will go sit outside for a bit before work.
Thursday, September 08, 2011
9/8/11
I didn't end up having to drive to NK last night after all. Instead I got called into work to take someone to the ER. Kayla's boss was kind enough to let her out a bit early so she could catch the last bus home. We both got home around the same time...midnight.
Prior to the 911 texts I was getting, followed by phone calls, Zach and I watched Will Ferrell's movie Everything Must Go. It was ok but kind of depressing. When I got home, I put in Your Highness. Fell asleep watching it but I'm trying again this morning.
I'm going to workout, tan and get ready and then go to work. Come home, feed Zach and Bella, get her to sleep and then drive to NK tonight to get Kayla from work.
Prior to the 911 texts I was getting, followed by phone calls, Zach and I watched Will Ferrell's movie Everything Must Go. It was ok but kind of depressing. When I got home, I put in Your Highness. Fell asleep watching it but I'm trying again this morning.
I'm going to workout, tan and get ready and then go to work. Come home, feed Zach and Bella, get her to sleep and then drive to NK tonight to get Kayla from work.
Wednesday, September 07, 2011
Hmmmm!
I only have to go to my committee meeting at 3 now. Previous engagement was canceled. Now if only the meeting would get canceled too! Still have to drive to NK tonight to get Kayla, but at least I can go tanning now.
Tomorrow should be a relatively short day and Friday is what it is.
Tomorrow should be a relatively short day and Friday is what it is.
9/7/11
Today is filled with stuff I do not want to do. I do not want to drive anybody anywhere today. I do not want to sit through a 2 hour committee meeting. I do not want to drive to NK tonight.
So I've been hearing about this thread up program. You box up your outgrown baby's clothes and get to pick a box in return. Sounds great, huh? So I signed Kayla and Bella up, listed Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, Baby Gap, LL Bean, Life is Good, etc, as the clothes we would be donating. The boxes that were available at that time for us to choose from were from Target, Walmart, JC Penney. You get my drift. So I'm going to donate QUALITY name brand clothing to get your used Walmart clothes? If I wanted them that badly, I guess I would have bought them new. Frustrating. Oh, and some of the people thought they'd be clever and list Baby Gap first, to get a nibble, then list one Gap onesie and a long list of Target/Walmart clothes. Not exactly a Gap box now is it. Frustrating because I would love to see Bella's stuff get used to its utmost. Guess we will just continue donating to Goodwill...
I have to get my hour of cardio in and begin my blah day.
So I've been hearing about this thread up program. You box up your outgrown baby's clothes and get to pick a box in return. Sounds great, huh? So I signed Kayla and Bella up, listed Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, Baby Gap, LL Bean, Life is Good, etc, as the clothes we would be donating. The boxes that were available at that time for us to choose from were from Target, Walmart, JC Penney. You get my drift. So I'm going to donate QUALITY name brand clothing to get your used Walmart clothes? If I wanted them that badly, I guess I would have bought them new. Frustrating. Oh, and some of the people thought they'd be clever and list Baby Gap first, to get a nibble, then list one Gap onesie and a long list of Target/Walmart clothes. Not exactly a Gap box now is it. Frustrating because I would love to see Bella's stuff get used to its utmost. Guess we will just continue donating to Goodwill...
I have to get my hour of cardio in and begin my blah day.
Tuesday, September 06, 2011
Yesssssssssss!!!
Bella is actually taking a nap when she's supposed to! The house is clean. Toys are picked up. Her books put away and her letter magnets on the fridge! I can't decide what I want to do in the next hour!
9/6/11
I'm loving this rain! I really wish I could lay in bed all day. I will give myself a few more minutes, laying here, enjoying my coffee, catching up on current events before I get my hour of cardio in and begin my day off with Bella in tow! She was so cute at 6:30 this morning. She came into my room like she does every morning, but this time she was dry, so I actually let her get into bed with me, and all she wanted to do was cuddle. Bella is not a cuddly baby. She will spontaneously hug you and kiss you, especially if she wants something in return, but she's far too busy to just sit still. She wants to play. All day. Every day. She will sit for a book and you better get your cuddles in then.
The next two weeks are going to be long and annoying. When I look down that path, it is very overwhelming, so I guess today I'm just going to get through today.
The next two weeks are going to be long and annoying. When I look down that path, it is very overwhelming, so I guess today I'm just going to get through today.
Monday, September 05, 2011
9/5/11
8 days till our anniversary!
Glad this is the last holiday weekend this summer. I need to get back on my tanning schedule now that their regular hours will be starting soon, which means they'll be open on the weekends again! I got a lot accomplished even though I felt like I was in lines and in traffic for a lot of the day!
My bathroom looks great! Happy with what I did with it today!
Kayla has been cleaning her and Bella's room today. I might do my closet tonight! Desperately need to see what I have and what I will need for fall. Then again, I might just read a book till I fall asleep!
Glad this is the last holiday weekend this summer. I need to get back on my tanning schedule now that their regular hours will be starting soon, which means they'll be open on the weekends again! I got a lot accomplished even though I felt like I was in lines and in traffic for a lot of the day!
My bathroom looks great! Happy with what I did with it today!
Kayla has been cleaning her and Bella's room today. I might do my closet tonight! Desperately need to see what I have and what I will need for fall. Then again, I might just read a book till I fall asleep!
Saturday, September 03, 2011
9/3/11
Ten days till our anniversary.
This has been a long week and I'm glad to see it come to a close. I have Sunday, Monday AND Tuesday off!
I got my workout done early. Go me! I find I'm less stressed about working out if I just get it out of the way early. My preferred time to workout though is in the early evening, but so much can happen in a day that if I have to alter my schedule, my workout is usually the first thing to get eliminated and I hate to miss a workout.
The weather is looking great for the holiday. No rain in the forecast till Tuesday. We will be grilling and drinking and maybe some exploring. I want to hike down to the seal preserve again. We will certainly be celebrating the fact that all the tourists will be gone after Monday! Please do not come back.
I also want to get some reading done.
This has been a long week and I'm glad to see it come to a close. I have Sunday, Monday AND Tuesday off!
I got my workout done early. Go me! I find I'm less stressed about working out if I just get it out of the way early. My preferred time to workout though is in the early evening, but so much can happen in a day that if I have to alter my schedule, my workout is usually the first thing to get eliminated and I hate to miss a workout.
The weather is looking great for the holiday. No rain in the forecast till Tuesday. We will be grilling and drinking and maybe some exploring. I want to hike down to the seal preserve again. We will certainly be celebrating the fact that all the tourists will be gone after Monday! Please do not come back.
I also want to get some reading done.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Narragansett Town Beach
Our little spot was whored out to The Weather Channel for the duration of the storm. This was the Tuesday after the storm. Life is back to normal as you can see. The last of Irene's tracks went southeast of Narragansett and we got less than an inch of rain and minor storm surging. We did lose power for 31 hours. Portsmouth, RI got power last night. Parts of NK was still out when i drove through and my cousin Tammy said it was still out where she lives in Woonsocket.
Chaffee Nature Preserve
This is the harbor seal habitat and you're supposed to be very quiet when you walk the paths down here so you don't scare the seals off of get into a tussle with one.
Zachary at Blue Beach
I love how the sunburst is in the right corner. It reminds me of when I used to draw pictures when I was a kid and make the sun in the corner of the picture like this.
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Irene
The rain is just starting a bit. The storm itself is still in Virginia area so we have some time yet. Our town has a mandatory evacuation in effect tomorrow in ocean front property...we literally are like one house over from the evacuation zone. Big worries are power outages and flooding!!! The Weather Channel guy has been here in Narragansett, RI all day.
Tomorrow should be interesting to say the least!
Tomorrow should be interesting to say the least!
Friday, August 26, 2011
Weird Dreams
The hurricane must be on my brain because it's spawning some weird dreams. Certainly entertaining but weird. I'm not worried about the storm. Not even stocking up on water because our grill has a burner and we'll just boil it if we have to. I'm not stocking my fridge or freezer because of the real threat of losing our power, and I'm not about to lose a whole fridge full of food! So it'll be mostly snack foods, canned veggies, meal replacement bars, etc for Sunday if we really do get nailed. Bella has formula, cans of food, etc, plus she eats what we eat, so I'm not worried about her starving.
I'm most worried about losing power and being bored to tears for the day/evening. I'm going into to work at 7 tomorrow night and staying till 3 the next day. Scott is coming in at 9 Sunday morning so if I have to go home to get the kids, I can. We're right on the water and I guess there's potential for flooding, but we're midway up a hill, so I guess I'm not worried. The boat is in the yard and boats float! Plus we have a raft. If they evacuate the neighborhood, Zachary and Hayley are both capable of driving to the shelter (the high school). The house I work at floods randomly (we have an alarm) so it is more likely to happen on my end of things.
If everything goes right, we will be in no real danger and will be able to enjoy some wild weather and maybe get some awesome pics of the big swells that are being predicted!
I'm most worried about losing power and being bored to tears for the day/evening. I'm going into to work at 7 tomorrow night and staying till 3 the next day. Scott is coming in at 9 Sunday morning so if I have to go home to get the kids, I can. We're right on the water and I guess there's potential for flooding, but we're midway up a hill, so I guess I'm not worried. The boat is in the yard and boats float! Plus we have a raft. If they evacuate the neighborhood, Zachary and Hayley are both capable of driving to the shelter (the high school). The house I work at floods randomly (we have an alarm) so it is more likely to happen on my end of things.
If everything goes right, we will be in no real danger and will be able to enjoy some wild weather and maybe get some awesome pics of the big swells that are being predicted!
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
8/24/11
I went to bed late, woke up early, tried to fall back to sleep, finally out of bed by 9:20. Workout completed. Coffee ingested. Now I have to go tanning and then work, then home to watch Bella, get dinner, do timesheets and paperwork, and go to bed. Inservice tomorrow morning.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Ok...Serious Wants...
I just fell in love deeply with Elie Saab le Parfum. IN SERIOUS LOVE! (Available at Saks and Nordstroms in case my husband is shopping.) I just may trade in my Eternity for this! Been wearing Eternity since it debuted forever ago.
I also really really like the new Mountain quilted short (Ugg boot) in seal.
I also fell in love with Dooney & Bourke's The Smith Bag, in camel.
Grand total: $650
Price of keeping your wife happy...$priceless
Oh, oh, oh...still NEED Nikes Legend amazing butt pants in Capri length.
Currently listening to Pandora. Chilling in my bed wearing some cut-offs, reading Vogue, drinking coconut water, smelling like Elie Saab.
I also really really like the new Mountain quilted short (Ugg boot) in seal.
I also fell in love with Dooney & Bourke's The Smith Bag, in camel.
Grand total: $650
Price of keeping your wife happy...$priceless
Oh, oh, oh...still NEED Nikes Legend amazing butt pants in Capri length.
Currently listening to Pandora. Chilling in my bed wearing some cut-offs, reading Vogue, drinking coconut water, smelling like Elie Saab.
Better
Feeling so much better, which is a good thing. So much to do. I have to squeeze in two workouts today because I was feeling so poorly on Saturdy and Sunday, that I didn't work out. I only tanned one day last week. I haven't gotten my nails done in like a month. I have to work for a bit and figure out a yummy dinner. I think we've decided on a quinoa base with strawberries, blueberries, blackberries and bananas mixed in, with a little vanilla flavoring, and coconut on top!
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Yuck
Headache, sore throat, stomachache.
After 8 AM tomorrow, I will have the next 30 hours off.
So yesterday, we had a Spanish rice version of quinoa. Made the same way, just substituted the rice with quinoa. I completely love how versatile this food is! Also used chicken broth instead of water to prepare it. Very yummy.
After 8 AM tomorrow, I will have the next 30 hours off.
So yesterday, we had a Spanish rice version of quinoa. Made the same way, just substituted the rice with quinoa. I completely love how versatile this food is! Also used chicken broth instead of water to prepare it. Very yummy.
Friday, August 19, 2011
Success!!!
American Eagle jeans are ON!!! Zipped!!! And buttoned!!!
They're tight, and not necessarily a flattering tight right now, but dammit, they're on again!!! Another few weeks and these will be loose! I don't want them to get too big because these jeans are like five years old. I doubt American Eagle will ever push out awesomeness likethese jeans ever again!!! I read an article about favorite jeans and the two were Gap and American Eagle. Gap is a no brainer. They're stretchy and run big. American Eagle runs smallish to true to size I guess, so I'm surprised they made it to the top two. They make your butt look AMAZING!!!
They're tight, and not necessarily a flattering tight right now, but dammit, they're on again!!! Another few weeks and these will be loose! I don't want them to get too big because these jeans are like five years old. I doubt American Eagle will ever push out awesomeness likethese jeans ever again!!! I read an article about favorite jeans and the two were Gap and American Eagle. Gap is a no brainer. They're stretchy and run big. American Eagle runs smallish to true to size I guess, so I'm surprised they made it to the top two. They make your butt look AMAZING!!!
Lucky!
My Lucky jeans fit too! Now I'm crossing my fingers that my very favorite of all lifetime American Eagle jeans fit again too! That may be a few weeks off yet, and I'm fine with that. I need something to work towards.
Happy Day!
Grabbed a random pair of jeans out of my closet. And these jeans were not my fat day jeans, to say the least, and I thought to myself, never gonna happen, but then thought the humiliation of not being able to squeeze into jeans that were once too big, would be good motivation for me to do a second work out today since I could only get one done yesterday. Well these jeans went right on!!! Even with premenstrual bloat and hot muggy summer air! And??? I still got a second hour of cardio in!
Also good news, Mitch is picking up Hayley for me and Kayla is taking the bus to work, so I will just have to get myself to work. Still 150 miles total for me but this is the last time I will be doing it!!!
I'm actually happiest because I worked out to Christmas music today! So excited about the upcoming holiday season. October through December!
Also good news, Mitch is picking up Hayley for me and Kayla is taking the bus to work, so I will just have to get myself to work. Still 150 miles total for me but this is the last time I will be doing it!!!
I'm actually happiest because I worked out to Christmas music today! So excited about the upcoming holiday season. October through December!
Well...
The best news of yesterday is that it is over!!! So glad for that.
My schedule is changing up a bit starting next Friday. Instead of 150 miles of driving, it is a shift that requires no driving. Slight possibility of getting my ass kicked once in awhile, but more lucrative in the big scheme of things. I'm hoping my stress levels will improve for the better with this move. I can do 3-8 or 4-7. I will probably do the right thing and pick 3-8 but 4-7 sounds like just what the doctor has ordered! At least I won't be dishing out $60 extra in gas, which will be $240 saved every month.
Hell week is almost over. I went deeper into Hell than I wanted or anticipated yesterday. Obviously there was a reason we needed to be off the road for a bit and if that reason kept the baby safe, then it was very much worth the inconvenience.
At least I'm at the fun part of stressed out. The point where really all you can do is laugh at the absurdity of it all. And when the trouble struck, I called AAA and took care of things to the best of my ability, without calling my husband. It was like the old me took over and I kind of miss that girl! It is easier to just handle things on my own, instead of worrying about what I will do when something happens (and it always does) when my husband is unavailable.
The agenda today: work out, tan, get ready, pick up Hayley at 3:30, then get Kayla dropped off at work, bring Hayley and Bella home and then go to work myself.
My schedule is changing up a bit starting next Friday. Instead of 150 miles of driving, it is a shift that requires no driving. Slight possibility of getting my ass kicked once in awhile, but more lucrative in the big scheme of things. I'm hoping my stress levels will improve for the better with this move. I can do 3-8 or 4-7. I will probably do the right thing and pick 3-8 but 4-7 sounds like just what the doctor has ordered! At least I won't be dishing out $60 extra in gas, which will be $240 saved every month.
Hell week is almost over. I went deeper into Hell than I wanted or anticipated yesterday. Obviously there was a reason we needed to be off the road for a bit and if that reason kept the baby safe, then it was very much worth the inconvenience.
At least I'm at the fun part of stressed out. The point where really all you can do is laugh at the absurdity of it all. And when the trouble struck, I called AAA and took care of things to the best of my ability, without calling my husband. It was like the old me took over and I kind of miss that girl! It is easier to just handle things on my own, instead of worrying about what I will do when something happens (and it always does) when my husband is unavailable.
The agenda today: work out, tan, get ready, pick up Hayley at 3:30, then get Kayla dropped off at work, bring Hayley and Bella home and then go to work myself.
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