Perfect Princess Party

My 5-year-old Princess!

My daughter Amareah turned 5 years old about a week or so ago, but we were just able to celebrate with her friends yesterday. I'm a nervous party planner and hostess so I was concerned that no one would show up. Boy, was I wrong. The party was beautiful - thanks to my 18-year-old daughter Amber who came home on Friday afternoon specifically to celebrate the day with her sister, bought the majority of the supplies that night, decorated with a little help from me and made sure we had everything we needed to make the newest big girl happy.

A cake fitting for a princess.

The princess and her friends who are in the same class as she is... plus Anna who decided to be shy.

My three beautiful princesses (the prince spent the day with his dad).

Amareah was a little embarrassed when everyone sang happy birthday to her... I had to uncover her face so her sister to capture a picture. It was so cute the way she grinned and covered her face.

Shaunalynn (The Art and Science of Parenting) captured this oh-so-cute picture of one of her daughters with her new preteen friends. The twins are Amber's boyfriend's sisters and the other young lady is their best friend. They are all sweet girls and Amareah was happy to have them at the party.

Of course she enjoyed opening her gifts. She received two Barbies, a couple of shirts, an outfit, some coloring books, a cool washable paint thing, a doll, some money and undies. I love her smile here.

 Between cake, candy, chips and other forbidden goodies, I'd say she had a good time. (Do you think I can hide/destroy all of the sweets and she won't notice?)

It all turned out so wonderfully and despite the extreme exhaustion I (and Amber!) felt at the end, the only thing that was important was what Amareah said when everything had quieted down: "That was a great party!"

Awwww.... can you feel the momma pride welling up in me? That makes it all worth it!

They sure do grow quickly

I'm sure it was just yesterday that my only son had about five pair of shoes and my two youngest daughters had a slew to wear as well. It's already time to purchase more shoes for kids. Everyone always says that children grow like weeds. I always thought that meant they sprout up quickly, but that's just part of it. They also sprout up sneakily. Have you ever driven from your house in the morning, came back in the evening and all of a sudden noticed a ton of weeds in your yard? That's because they weren't there when you left. LOL... It's the same with children.

You send them to school or give them a snack and before you know it they've either grown taller or wider by at least an inch, and their feet are suddenly squished into the very depths of their shoes with no room to spare. When it comes to buying shoes for my children I always try to make sure I get the correct size and what's appropropriate for their lifestyle, which means casual, play and school shoes. The casual and school shoes can be the same, but it's best to have more than one pair so that one doesn't get worn out so quickly. At least that's my theory.

I'd like to get my son a pair of boots and several pair of sneakers: high tops, basketball and running shoes. My daughters need shoes that go with skirts/dresses and leggings as well as those that look good with jeans. I love to coordinate the children's shoes with what they wear. Even for my son. It would be great if he could wear at least a different pair every two to three days. (Can you tell I like shoes?)

Right now I'll be lucky just to ensure that their feet are comfortable and that the shoes are practical and of good quality. The quality is especially important for my middle daughter who passes down all of her things to her baby sister.

When's the last time you bought shoes for your kids?

Books to support resolutions

At the beginning of this year I made commitments to myself, which most people call New Year Resolutions. For me, referring to them as commitments to myself, i.e. promises, makes them more solid and permanent. I've noticed when I make commitments and reveal them publicly (like when I kept you abreast of my weight loss) there is a better chance that I will succeed. In fact, that's true for most people.

It's the support and the accountability that makes succeeding at one's goal possible. If we operate in a box then we conduct ourselves on a narrow path without input, variety and encouragement. Another way to receive the support necessary for success is to make use of books and other written materials to get perspective, encouragement and motivation.

There are quite a few books that may assist you in meeting your New Year goals. Here are a few I've seen recently:

• The Happiness Plan: 7 Simple Steps to Make the Life You Have the One You Want by Carmel McConnell
• The Law of Forgiveness: Tap in to the Positive Power of Forgiveness and Attract Good Things to Your Life by Connie Domino, MPH, RN
• The Triangle of Truth: The Surprisingly Simple Secret to Resolving Conflicts Large and Small by Lisa Earle McLeod
• You are the Reason: A Survivor's Guide to Ultimate Strength by Johnathan Craig

McConnell is a social entrepreneur, and author of The Happiness Plan, who believes that most of us have the capability to be happy with everything we have right now (regardless of the condition of our finances, work status, etc.) by making happiness a priority on our agenda. She offers seven steps to help in the achievement of happiness, which ultimately results in a flexible plan readers can apply to their lives.

The first step is to decide to be happier using the ABC approach: Allow more room for happiness. Begin by doing something in the here and now. Continue the process. What I like about this book is that it's interactive. You have to really think about the questions, annotate your answers in the spaces provided and each item is reiterated.

The Happiness Plan helps you to realize the best definition of happiness, which is YOUR definition of happiness and how you have control of making yourself happy based on the plan you develop using this book. It isn't a quick read - if you're serious about doing the work - it's a process to putting your plan into action. I'm still reading and absorbing this book. It's my goal to add my happiness plan to my vision board for a complete view of my goals, where I want to be in life as well as the type of person I want present myself as and be on the inside.

One of the things a lot of people believe is that harboring un-forgiveness has a negative impact on the person with the ill feelings not the person it is directed to. Sometimes it takes some self work (delving deep into one's feelings and thoughts) to identify that you haven't forgiven someone. The Law of Forgiveness explores the power of forgiveness from various angles including scientific, religious, individual and societal. Once it has been explored and the reader has a true understanding, Domino gives guidelines and affirmation-based techniques to forgive others and themselves. The steps also include helping others to forgive them.

Personally, I haven't realized any areas where I haven't forgiven someone ... well, that's not exactly accurate. There's a lot in my own life I haven't forgiven myself for so I suppose I need to rethink what I was about to write. I believe that The Happiness Plan and The Law of Forgiveness are going to be two tools that I use in the process of bettering myself. It's not perfection I seek to achieve, but a true knowledge into my thoughts, feelings, process and the keys to unlock the success that is trapped within me.

One of the things I've learned about myself over the past couple of years is that I hate unnecessary conflict, drama and arguments. And, thankfully, I've done a fairly good job of minimizing that in my life at least to the degree where I can minimize my response to it. I try to resolve disagreements with conversation and/or resolution, and if that doesn't work then I prefer to walk away. I think this is a new thing for me, but it's one I am committed to perfecting (if there is such a thing).

The Triangle of Truth seems like the ideal book to help with that. McLeod describes The Triangle of Truth as "the ability to hold two seemingly conflicting ideas in your mind at the same time, and assimilate them in a way that makes their whole greater than the sum of their parts." She, of course, didn't invent that, but once it was pointed out to her she saw it everywhere. I believe I do a pretty good job of doing this because I like to see the gray of every issue. I've talked to a couple of people - mainly men - who only see something as black and white. They don't think there's a way to merge the two ideas to make them both real and possible. That is where I think the book is leading.

There are seven core principles that McLeod offers as a model for resolving conflict. Envision each side of the triangle as a point of view: One side is your view, the other side is the person's view and the apex is the solution that's bigger and better. Make sense now? McLeod says it's more than compromise; it is collaboration, which is right up my alley.

You'll have to check this book out to see if it works for you because at first I wasn't sure even though it presents a viewpoint that I already embrace. Why? I thought it would be boring. (I just have to be honest.) But McLeod is known as a insightful and humorous person so getting through it should be a pleasure.

Finally, speaking of pleasure, You Are the Reason, is touted as heartfelt and motivational. It's a memoir that was written to help others find their strength, hope, peace and purpose. The author was diagnosed with HIV about 27 years ago and when he got the news he had to make a choice: find the courage to fight or resign to die. He ends of falling in love with life after learning from some of the world's greatest thinkers. Now he has a determination and passion for life that is a model for others living with terminal illness as well as those looking for a reason to live. He shares that model through motivational speaking.

Last month was AIDS Awareness Month, which would have made that a perfect time to talk about the book, but I believe that the New Year can bring new perspectives for some people. If you need to discover your ultimate strength then I would suggest reading this book first. If, on the other hand, your will to live is strong and you're seeking happiness then try the other three first ending with You Are the Reason. After putting in the work on yourself, ending with Craig's book will be the motivation to keep you on the right path.

Whether you choose to read one of those books, and I hope you do, or find another one to assist in your personal growth be sure not to operate inside of a box. Seek support, advice and motivation from outside sources. And remember, I'm here - at It's a woman's world! - to support you. Come back and share your progress - or your books - with us.

I received review copies of the above books to facilitate this post; no other compensation was received. The opinions expressed are my own.

Car maintenance estimates, locations

When I had my Dodge Caravan there were several warning lights that kept coming on including the check engine light. With the van I just got not too long ago, lucky for me, the only light I've seen is the gas light. Besides neglecting to put gas in my vehicle, I normally try to take pretty good care of it. If a warning light comes on I go to an auto shop as soon as I can.

There was one not too far from my house that I was taking my vehicle too until they got rid of all the managers and some of the mechanics that I knew. I'd went in there so many times - and spent so much money - that they didn't charge me for just looking at the van if there was a problem. The last time I went in there and needed something checked the guy on duty told me that it would cost $30 just to look at it. I looked at him like he was crazy. Instead, they did an oil change, which I needed, and checked the problem all for about $20.

I haven't been back since and have been using a mobile mechanic that someone recommended to me. Although he's good and gives me great deals, it isn't always the best situation so I'm looking for another shop that I can take my vehicle to when needed. I'm going to check RepairPal and see what shops they list in my area.

Regardless of where you're located you can put in your specific information and RepairPal will do the work for you. You can get your Ford F-150 tuned up at a San Diego auto repair shop, if that's where you're located, or if you're traveling to visit family and friends in another town you can put that information into the search function to find a reliable location. One of the best features about RepairPal is that it'll give you an estimate of how much your maintenance will cost.

Having to deal with car repairs is one of my least favorite things to do, but if I know what I should expect and that there's somewhere reliable to take my car it makes a dreaded task easy to complete.

Afterwards...

Before I tell you what happened with the liver biopsy, let me tell you a little bit about what happened the day before. Every ride and alternative ride that I had set up fell through. My response: tears. After I released that little emotion I posted this message of Facebook:

Who lives in the ATL area? Has free time tomorrow, transportation and a caring demeanor? Oh... and likes me enough not to dump me outta their car while I'm drugged. Yup, all rides fell through.

My dear sweet blogging friend Shaunalynn (or random stranger as Mary the nurse will always remember her as!) came through for me. Let me sidebar here: Yes, we've met before. No, she didn't just pick me up off the Internet. Well, sort of. LOL.

Okay, enough of the inside jokes. At least for now.

Shaunalynn (The Art and Science of Parenting) drove from north of the ATL to pick me up (I live south of the ATL) drove me to the VA hospital, which is north, took me home and then drove home herself. Isn't that sweet of her? We had a blast though. Despite the fact that she was trying not to make me laugh 'cause it hurt to take a deep breath; I got quite a few chuckles and giggles in. We took pictures (I still think we should have gotten one of my bloody dressing!), talked about the blood in the trashcan, made faces about behind the nurses back, giggled about men, food and anything else that presented itself as worthy of conversation.

Like Shelley (Naturi Beauty) told me all I had to do was envision what I needed and wanted that day - it came in the form of Shaunalynn. I am very appreciative of that support and love.

Now, back to the biopsy. It went very well. The setting up, poking me and hooking me up to machines took 20 times longer than the actual procedure, which wasn't nearly as painful as I thought it would be. It was not "fun," but I didn't cry so that's good! The recover took the longest. I had to lay on my right side to put pressure on the incision (entry point?) because I bled a little afterward. I'm not even gonna mention the reason why I bled. Let's just say that in a blond moment my mind didn't recall that Ibuprofen and Tylenol are the same thing. ... Don't even ask.

When it was time to start checking me out, I rolled over to find that my bandage was soaked in blood. The nurse called the doctor who inspected it and was pleased to find that it was mostly from the result of the procedure not continual bleeding. With a new bandage in place I rested for another 20 minutes, give or take, before I was cleared to go.

Weird how something so small can be painful.

We arrived at the VA hospital at 11 a.m. and were leaving around 4 p.m. Not too bad I suppose. Especially since they had called that morning to rush me in early and when I got there told me there wasn't a bed available. LOL... That's entirely another story.

<--- The nurse told me to get dressed, but she hadn't removed my IV thingy. 

I am so super sore today because since I am off of one med for another reason and can't take the Ibuprofen. I'm hoping it won't be too difficult to get through the day. Today reminds me of the times before I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia and how extremely sore I was each day. Although the meds don't totally alleviate the pain, they obviously help quite a bit as I'm finding it difficult to move about. How in the world did I survive so many years without medication is beyond me. I amaze myself.

Hopefully by this time tomorrow I will have less all over pain and the pain from my incision will be gone. It's still pretty tender. It'll be about a week before the results will be back so I'll be sure to update you when I hear something. I kind of hope they find something that will give me the answers I need on what's going wrong with my liver. Then that brings me to the hope that there's something they can do about it. So, don't think I'm too weird, but here's to a *positive* result that is filled with answers and solutions.

Hold the freakin' presses!

Here I go with a quick and dirty (who came up with that saying?) post about my health and weight loss. On the health front, I am feeling semi okay. My body is trying to adjust to a medication that the rhuematologist took me off of. Her theory is that since I've been on it so long it may be causing the numbness, tingling and cold feelings in my lower legs. Not too surprising since that's what the caregivers in the pain clinic suspected she would do. To me it seems like the pain is getting worse as a result, but I'm going to try to hold out the three months she said it would take to know for sure.

They're backed up in the hemotology clinic so I haven't had that appointment yet. And excitement of all excitements is my liver biopsy tomorrow. (Yes, I'm being sarcastic! LOL.) I'm a little anxious about it. I guess there are some people out there that wouldn't be, but yippee for them for being so perfect. (LMAO! I had to laugh at my own sarcasm that time.) Although I'm not dreading it and am glad to get it out of the way; it is an invasive procedure so any normal person should feel a little catch in their heart. See, I'm normal.

:)

Now, concerning these presses that need to be held! What is up with my eating and my weight? I'll tell you what's up with it: It's creeping up and food is just finding its way into my mouth. Mysteriously.

(Yes, I laughed.)

I've never been one to give into emotional eating (at least not so frequently), but I've gotten ridiculous.

Before I get more into that, let me share what Heather Hatfield at WebMD wrote about the subject:

When you're happy, your food of choice could be steak or pizza, when you're sad it could be ice cream or cookies, and when you're bored it could be potato chips. Food does more than fill our stomachs -- it also satisfies feelings, and when you quench those feelings with comfort food when your stomach isn't growling, that's emotional eating.


"Emotional eating is eating for reasons other than hunger," says Jane Jakubczak, a registered dietitian at the University of Maryland. "Instead of the physical symptom of hunger initiating the eating, an emotion triggers the eating."

How many of us think about that before we pop something into our mouths? I'm a very conscious eater as is obvious in my recognition that I'm doing it. Now we have to find out how to stop it. Yes, I said "we."

There have been numorous articles written and television shows based on emotional eating, and some actually address what we do to stop. For many individuals it's a difficult process and I don't want to get to the point where it's difficult for me. I need to discover and address whatever is prompting me to eat. I think on some level I know what it is: When it's a situation that I feel like I have no control over and that's making me upset or unhappy then I want a snack. A big snack!

Let's review the most recent situation: Not feeling comfortable that my arrangements are solidified for my ride to and from the hospital tomorrow. I had four options (folks on call/stand by) and it seems like they've fallen through. It's the afternoon before and I would just like to know that I'll have the comfort of someone being there with me.

I'll be taking Naturi Beauty's advice and envision what I want/need, and I am hoping that makes a difference in my anxiety level. I didn't want to have to worry about my transportation then I could just concentrate on relaxing while getting ready for the procedure. I could remind myself that it's fairly routine, that something going wrong is rare and that everything will be okay. Anything they discover will be great because then I'll have an answer to what's going on with my liver. Once I think about all of that then I can just be nervous about the gigantic needle I'm picturing they're going to numb the area with and be relieved when it turns out to be small.

See how the transportation thing is interfering with my process?

That did nothing to solve the emotional eating problem though, did it? Well, I get it's all about relinquishing control. Sure, I can do that. ( Yup, that was sarcasm again! :] )

All I know is that the little bit of extra room that was in my jeans is no longer there so girlfriend - meaning me! - has got to get back on the bandwagon! With.a.quickness!

Jewelry for little girls

When I had my first daughter, almost 19 years ago, I couldn't wait to get her ears pierced and buy her all kinds of cute little earrings. Her ears were pierced by the time she was 2 years old and before she was 3 I had purchased her two gold rings and she had received her second gold bracelet by that time as well.

Although she can no longer wear earrings; she still loves jewelry. She prefers sterling silver or colorful pieces that are representative of her style.

My two youngest daughters really like jewelry as well, but they don't seem mature enough to take care of it. I find their little rings and bracelets laying around the house (lucky for me they aren't real!) or they say they've lost them. As soon as they show the ability to care for and appreciate their belongings then I will get them some girls jewelry.

Every time I surf to a jewelry web store or walk pass a case at a department store I have to check out the products they have for little girls. Some of the best choices are designer girls jewelry and collections. For instance, wouldn't it be cute if each of my daughters - including the oldest - had an alphabet charm in a different script? Since all of their names being with an A it would be a classy way to unite them as sisters. Or what about love hearts in their favorite colors? Amber loves pink, Amareah digs purple and Anna is partial to orange. Then I could get my own love heart necklace with all three colored hearts that represent my daughters.

Oops, there I go thinking about jewelry for myself again.

With Valentine's Day approaching it's a great idea to treat the little ladies in our lives to some girls jewelry. They're sure to love it!

Peppermint Pattie, Peanut M&M's

I was fine. Really I was. I mean I had a lot to do, but I have been kind of plugging along through my day. Ignoring any pain (more about that another time), avoiding any negative thoughts... you know, just a regular day. My son got off of the bus, we jumped in the van to pick up my middle daughter, chatted at head start for a minute, went to get little Miss Toddler and came home.

About 10 minutes into them being home my nerves were grated. Okay, what's the deal, I thought, they've been with their father since Friday evening so I should be all zenned out. I had a chance to relax, sleep, veg, nibble, watch television, work and everything else I can think of without interruption. I didn't have to get up early to fix anyone anything to eat and slept until I forced myself to shuffle out of the bed.

Then why do I have the "OMG I can't wait 'til his weekend" feeling when I have 13 days until it arrives?

The feelings of irritation magnified when I discovered that my transportation/help/ride/support for the liver biopsy on Wednesday is up in the air and/or non-existent. I guess everyone has valid reasons, but once again I am left on my own for something important. I was already nervous enough about the biopsy and then to know that now I'm scrabbling to find and way to and fro has really set me on edge.

The ride I have semi-arranged (I say semi 'cause it seems as if he'll forget or something: "Let me call you back after I help my son play Wii.") can't stay there with me. I'll have to go about an hour or two early and may have to wait an hour or so after, and he won't be able to stay... I don't know if someone will be allowed to sit with me while they do the biopsy, but I think I'll be awake and the last time I had bone marrow taken my then boyfriend (now my ex-husband) sat next to me and held my hand. So even if that ride comes through it sounds like a painful, lonely experience.

With all of this weighing on me I have an urge to "fix it" with a little emotional eating. (You're thinking, "Ahhh... now I get it...," right?) All I want now is some Peanut M&M's and a couple of Peppermint Patties. Mmmm... that would make all my troubles go away.

Well, it would give me a few minutes of pleasure and the ability to forget anything while I feel the cool sensation and experience the nut... hmmm? Now that gives me other ideas. ;)

Adventure Romantica Contest

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Dr Oetker. All opinions are 100% mine.

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The contest ends on February 15, 2010 so get your entry in today.

Listening to the stars

I accidentally signed into another email account this morning when I turned on my computer. Since I was there I decided to check the in box and see what was there and decided to take a peek at my horoscope. I clicked through to see today's reading and this is what it said:

This could be an easygoing day if you don't make yourself busy with unnecessary work. Instead of simply shifting into automatic and starting on your regular list of chores, consider which tasks are non-essential and leave those for another day. Even if you are a typical hardworking Virgo, think about taking some time off today just for yourself. By Rick Levine, copyright 2008, Tarot.com

I had absolutely planned to go about my regular day of chores (laundry, cleaning, dishes, vacuuming...) and such. But I have decided to just get my work accomplished since I have a deadline tomorrow. I'll spend the rest of the day relaxing and taking care of myself. Maybe I'll wash my hair then give myself a manicure and a pedicure. Then relax in front of the television reading magazines.

I'll do a few things around the house, but I'm committing to taking some time off for myself today.

Grumpies, frumpies & Abigail

Shame on me. I'm grumpy and I can barely shake it. Then I feel guilty because images of children in Haiti scroll across my screen. Then it's back to my reality and the grumps set in again.

It's the slow Internet today - don't know if it's the weather or the computer. It's the rude Auntie Flow who refuses to mind her own business and slow the hell down. And she's making me look like a frump. It's the uninspired thoughts that are a victim of the grumps and the frumps. (I'm not even gonna tell you about my lip poking out 'cause I can't have my way.)

But then there's the automated phone call I get from one of my children's health insurance companies that says it's calling about my child Abigail. For a moment I thought I had misheard. Let's see, as I count them off on my fingers - #1 Amber, #2 Andre, #3 Amareah #4 Anna. Nope, no Abigails. Hmmmm??

Then I just have to laugh.

I'm off to think about Abigail. She distracts me from the grumpies.

Yea, don't worry, I know I'm being random.

Official Big Kid

Happy 5th Birthday Amareah!

This was a couple of months ago!

Five years ago today I gave birth to my second baby girl and my third child. I didn't think I would survive having her since I had a 15 month old, high-needs son to take care of already. My son Andre was a real challenge. He, from day one, loudly and continuously demanded whatever it was he wanted at the moment. He would scream in the car for the.entire.car.ride. Sometimes it could be 45 minutes. Eventually his older sister discovered that he liked to hold something in his hands and she started holding his hand in the car. Most of the time it would work. Oftentimes it would not. Riding in the car was miserable.

I think Amareah was a little older than one here.

So, I assumed that I would have two screaming babies when Amareah was born, but God had mercy on me. He gave me an infant girl who would contentedly suck her fingers while I tended to the toddler. She would be hungry, but would wait while I stopped him from screaming or fed him or got him some juice or whatever the current need was. She didn't wait indefinitely, but she normally gave me at least 20 minutes.

She's growing into such a sweet, cute kid. Oh she can be bossy and all the other things that come along with being a know-it-all kid, but she is a doll.

Happy Birthday Poot-Woot! Mommy loves you.

The three Musketeers enjoyed cupcakes 

this afternoon in honor of Amareah's 5th birthday 

and she's going to have a princess party on the 30th.

Here's a peek at the process I went through making her birthday party invitations.I am still having trouble with the laptop so I had to get creative with the invitations.)

On the left is what I started with. There was a little creative procurement from a well-known website. I save it to my Sandisk, printed off site then brought it home to copy on my color copier (4-in-1, which I love and can't use because of the laptop issues).

There ya have it... My official big kid. Three down and one to go: Miss Anna will be 3 on her next birthday.

Hope for Haiti

If you've been trying to think of a way to help Haiti then check out Hope for Haiti. The site was created in response to the recent devastating earthquake. A large group of popular bloggers and website owners have pulled their resources to raffle an extraordinary amount of prizes, products and services. You will find everything from beauty products, home decor, jewelry, advertising spots, music downloads and web design packages. The proceeds of the raffle will be donated to The American Red Cross and Compassion International. All raffle tickets are one dollar.

Get updates at the Hope for Haiti Facebook group.


NOTE: I know there are many organizations that you can donate through. In fact, you can click on the links of the two organizations above and donate directly. The reason I've chosen to tell you about Hope for Haiti is because many individuals want to help and don't know how. Many don't want to simply donate $1 to the Red Cross, but buying a raffle ticket (or many raffle tickets) in an effort to win something you can give to someone else as a gift will, in essence, help you and help them. Whatever you choose to do - just help.

Theme for the day? Late and rushing.

Once upon a time there was a little girl who hated to be kept waiting. She would stew silently and eventually learned to always have a book with her to take advantage of the idle time. As she got older and had her own family she was normally on time, but on occasion - just like anyone else - she would run late. Then somewhere, somehow, things began to change. Now it seems like she's always late.

If you haven't already guessed it; that little girl is me. Yes, it seems like lately I am always late, behind, delayed, distracted or any other adverb you can think of to describe it. Please avoid saying delinquent 'cause that will make me feel bad. Despite the truthfulness of it all.

I am one who firmly believes that someone who is always late has no respect for anyone else's time. That's why - in my opinion - doctor's offices, dentist practices, the military, government offices, etc., make individuals wait because they lack respect for the person's time. That's not true for me or at least it hasn't been so now I have to rethink my position on that.

Today, for instance, I was up at 5 a.m., but I was too tired to stay up so I decided to stay in bed until my alarm went off at 5:30. I think the alarm went off, although I can't remember, but I got a wake up call from my NY BF saying, "Get up! It's 6:00!"

"6 o'clock?!"

And so the day begins. Never mind that I needed to be on time today 'cause I had to be to the VA Hospital by 9:15. I get Andre ready on time and on the bus. The girls are already dressed before he leaves and as soon as the bus rolls away I jump into the shower. It was supposed to be a quick shower, fast moisturizing, jumping into clothes and rushing out of the door. Well, I got all of that done minus rushing out the door, looked into the mirror and my mouth fell open.

"Look at my hair!"

Geez, it's always something. I wasted my last five minutes and additional 10-15 trying to get my hair to do something halfway decent (nope, didn't work! have on a bandanna.) and I couldn't resist fixing me a cup of coffee to go (that didn't turn out well either).

I rush Amareah to school, run Anna to daycare and begin my 30-45 minute drive. I get there (in about 20-25 minutes - don't ask!) and because of contruction there aren't any parking spaces so I have to sit in the valet parking line. By this time it's about 9:45. My appointment is at 10:15, but I was supposed to get blood drawn at 9:15.

Oh well... I trek on. I rush into the building - ignoring the fact that I have to potty - and rush to the lab. It's 10:00. I get finished there in record time, rush back downstairs and check in for my appointment at exactly 10:15. Wow, I think, I'm back on schedule and ready to roll.

About two hours later I am still sitting in the waiting area. So much for rolling. My vitals have been taken and I'm waiting on the doctor. I read the magazine I've brought with me, but I begin to doze so I take a little nap. Someone wakes me up, I try to go back to sleep, I can't... I begin reading again and promptly doze off. Such a vicious cycle.

Once finished with the doctor, I go to the transportation department to get my travel money. The line is longer than I've ever seen. I wait for about 10 minutes before it dawns on me that I won't have enough time to wait in line, get my meds at the pharmacy, wait for my car at the valet and still make it home in time to get Andre off of the bus.

I rush back to the doctor and ask for her to put in an order to have the meds mailed. Rush to the valet and can't find my hook up to get my van quicker so I wait for that. I zoom outta the parking lot only to have to stop and get gas 'cause I'm on E. Yup, really needed that gas money.

So that I don't have to go home then back out to get Amareah (I pass the head start's street on the way home), I impatiently (people are so slow!) drive to her school with minutes to spare before making it home to get Andre. Just in time.

I finally eat lunch and sit down to get this all off of my chest. Hoping that releasing it will enable my brain to relax and accomplish something with the rest of the day. Hugh GIGANTIC sigh.

I guess now I'm a little late picking up Anna. Well, later than I normally am, but I have a couple/few things I need to get finished first. Maybe I'll get some Tasmanian speed in a minute and I can return home later, finish everything that needs to be done and go to bed at 8 p.m. when the kids do. Probably wishful thinking, I'll probably be late for that too.

A new commitment/resolution is in order for this New Year: BE ON TIME!






Off the subject note: For some reason I thought today was Tuesday, but - the bad thing is - I didn't think that the entire day. I knew my Wednesday appointment and commitments, but when I was about to post I was going to post what I often do on a Tuesday. Therefore, I don't have a Wordless Wednesday picture (Maybe something will eventually strike my fancy before the day is over) and I almost titled this post Tuesday's Theme. SIGH... I think I need a nap!

Making it happen

Here we are - another Monday - and there is already so much to do. Thankfully (luckily, happily!) I am feeling better. A little better everyday. So, although I didn't get very much done this weekend I was able to rest in order to heal. My laptop, books, magazines, datebook, coffee cup and anything else I've needed has been on the love seat with me in the living room. I think there's a permanent dent where my booty has been and the television and I are the best of friends. I even took a nap here one day.

Now that the week is about to officially begin (the kids are out of school today in recognition of Dr. King's birthday) I'm trying to get ready... I have laundry to finish, sheets to change, vacuuming to do, dishes to wash and a few other things. I'm going to try not to overdo it because I am so very glad that I feel better.

I guess now I should get up and get a real dinner prepared for my children. They've had chicken nuggets, sandwiches, dinosaur-shaped chicken nuggets, Cheese-Its, raisins, granola bars... I think they've had enough of that. Well, at least they've had fresh fruit, grains and a few veggies this past weekend. And the chicken nuggets were real meat. So, they've had protein, dairy... Hey, I didn't do too bad for a sore, invisible illness, ChronicBabe, rocking momma!

We moms can really make things happen, can't we? Now I'm off to keep things rolling.

How was your weekend? What are your plans and goals for the week?

Discount codes

It is no secret that I'm always looking for the best deals to stretch my dollars as far as they will go. I am sure I'm not the only mother who looks for discounts to help take care of their family. Besides coupons and sales that we use at brick and mortar stores, a lot of mothers get coupon and Discount Codes from websites that provide that service. The UK Unbeatable provides tech reviews, news and prices for consumers.

You can find discounts and vouchers from various retailers including Comet, Halfords, Dixons, thehut, Laptop Directs, Dyson Limited and many more or consumers can search via categories including computers, sports and fitness, office, headphones, washing machines and many other sought after items. Each listing is easy to read and provides the relevant code, when it was posted and the date when it expires. Users can leave feedback on whether the voucher worked for them and find the latest reviews on certain products. The site also lists the top-related products so customers can do a little comparison shopping; provides latest relevant news and links to discovering recent price drops, popular searches and buying guides.

Just about everything one needs in a discount code site is available at Unbeatable.co.uk.

Slow, sad, super Saturday

Ho-ing a little hum. (You know, ho hum.) An-t-way, my humor is about the same as how I feel today. A little dry and down (physically not mentally). I haven't been feeling well since last night sometime and when I was awakened this morning I didn't feel any better. A little worse as a matter of fact and moving really slowly. Even my skin is tired. I'm assuming it's one of my "attacks" - for lack of a better word. I haven't gotten as much sleep as I should have over the last week or so and that's usually one of the things that gives me days of exhaustion, more pains and aching. I've even napped today, but my eyes are still closing some.

I'll hopefully take another nap after I get a little work done. I also need to accomplish some housework, but each time I get up and move around a little it seems like my temperature rises. The mounds of laundry and dishes may just have to wait.

I guess this is like a mini health and weight loss update, huh?

The sad part? Not having one person who will stop by to help out, bring a pizza and some fun for the children or anything that will temporarily relieve the stress of not getting what I need to done. I always think it has something to do with the invisibility of my illnesses. I wonder if I broke my leg, had cancer, was in a car accident or something would anyone come through to help me out. Unfortunately, I seriously doubt it.

The super comes in the form of three little people who have undying energy. While I napped they chased each other through the house screaming and giggling; they played in their room; they drank water; helped their sister in the bathroom and who knows what else. I'm glad there weren't any fights and I was able to sleep relatively well with the noise level, which is a true indication that I definitely don't feel well. Sleep + running, playing children normally = mom irritation, but today I was thinking that I'm glad they're enjoying their day despite the cloudy, rainy weather and their mother passed out on the couch.

How's your weekend thus far?

Break the Cycle of Failed New Year's Resolutions with New Book, Achieve Anything in Just One Year

This is a sponsored guest post written by Jason Harvey on behalf of Achieve Anything In Just One Year. Post powered by Sponzai.

On January 1, more than 100 million Americans will make a New Year’s resolution, according to a University of Washington survey. By March, however, most resolution-makers will already have broken their newly minted promises. 

In his new book, Achieve Anything in Just One Year: Be Inspired Daily to Live Your Dreams and Accomplish Your Goals (Amazing Life Press, $29.95, http://www.amazinglifepress.com/), Jason Harvey provides a blueprint for personal success that can make 2010 the year that resolutions become reality. 

Most resolutions fail because people try to change too fast and accomplish too much all at once,” said Harvey, a Certified Life Coach. “My book is about learning how to make small daily changes and be your own personal life coach.”

The most common resolutions - to quit smoking, lose weight, exercise more, spend more quality time with family, etc. - are also the easiest to break. “The truth is, we set ourselves up to fail by making resolutions that are sweeping and unrealistic,” explained Harvey. 

The resulting cycle of making and breaking promises is self-defeating - so how can individuals make resolutions stick? Achieve Anything in Just One Year equips readers with the tools to: 

• Be truly committed.Don’t just go through the motions - act like you’re making a promise to your company, or to your best friend. 
• Be specific. A resolution like “I want to lose weight” is easier to ignore than “I want to lose five pounds by March.” 
• Set a deadline. A timeframe equals commitment and helps quantify success. 
• Avoid overwhelming yourself. You may want to lose weight, quit smoking, achieve moderation with martinis and cut up your credit cards all at once, but let’s get real. Focus on a limited set of goals and plan on taking stock mid-year. 
• Change one thing at a time. Recognize that change is hard. Wait to achieve one goal before starting on the next. 
• Be realistic. Taking charge of a fitness regimen is a realistic goal, while exercising seven days a week may not be. Don’t set yourself up for disappointment with lofty goals. 

The idea is to take daily action that creates a ripple effect in your life,” said Harvey. “By transforming your life with small steps, you can stay motivated, focused and balanced. Best of all, you’ll feel happier about pursuing your personal success.” 

Achieve Anything in Just One Year is available to BUY NOW at Amazon.com.

Take time for a good read... or two

Dear Dedicated (Book) Readers,

Please forgive my delinquency in posting book reviews. My only "excuse" is the busyness of the most recent holiday season that had my days a little off kilter. I am hoping that I am on the road to a more organized, and committed, blogging schedule that does not neglect my book and product reviews (as well as my other responsibilities), the readers of my reviews, and the publishers and publicists who vigilantly work to promote these great works.

Humbly yours,

Petula, the blogger, mom, writer... uh, woman.

Engaging & fulfilling

Those are two of the words I'll use to describe "Love You To Death" by Shannon K. Butcher. The book jacket is what intrigued me to read it:

It's been days since reporter Elise McBride has heard from her sister, Ashley, She's convinced Ashley has met with some kind of foul play, especially when she learns that bodies of other missing women have surfaced in around Chicago - all the victims of a brutal serial killer. Convinced her sister is still alive, Elise vows to risk everything to save her...

There enters the hunk of the story: ex-cop Trent Brady who not only has skeletons in his past, but commits to helping Elise find her sister. In the process they, of course, fall for each other. Bad thing is; the psycho has his eyes on her as well.

I'm loving the novels that mix suspense, drama and mystery with a little romance and sexual tension. It's the fabulous change to chick lit called romantic thrillers. If you haven't figured it out yet: I really enjoyed this book.

One of the things I found most fascinating about the author is she's the wife of bestselling author Jim Butcher. She learned to write from him by helping him with his stories. The urge to create her own was too strong and the industrial engineer is now a full-time author. (Inspiring, right?)

If I were you I'd order a copy, and to make it a little easier for you I'm including a link to Amazon here. Yes, it goes through my Amazon associates account, but I know you wouldn't mind clicking through to support a hard-working, freelance, single mom of four. ;D

Artful & thoughtful

The Art of Meaningful Living by Christopher F. Brown, LCSW, MBA, with art by John Palmer turned out to be more than I thought it was. It's one of the best coffee table-style books I've read since Dreads. With so many self-help books on the market that only speak to the mind and not the soul, this book is intended to offer "a framework for navigating significant life change through a combination of psychologically-based techniques and provocative abstract artwork."

It's that and it's beautiful. I find it to be a book that you can browse through and absorb yourself in the artwork or you can read the text to delve deeper into the true purpose of it. It's filled with psychological concepts that Brown says has worked on himself and those he has treated in his private practice while Palmer contributes original pieces of art that was inspired by the text.

To really experience The Art of Meaningful Living you'll have to see it for yourself. If you like beautiful artwork with the added benefit of a purpose, or vice versa, then you'll definitely want to grab a copy of this one.

Bonding with baby

For centuries mommies have figured out that most babies love to be touched and soothed. Now there's a book that uses massage-touch play activities to enhance that bonding experience and creative development. "Mommy, Draw Stars on My Tummy" by Martine Greeneveld* with art by Brad Kunkle includes brief instructions and suggestions to lead mommies (daddies can do it too) to make this a fulfilling and fun experience.

Honestly, the book wasn't exactly what I thought it would be, but I definitely see how today's new mommies can incorporate the techniques into their daily routines. For me, it would have been a great to have when my middle daughter, in particular, was an infant and young toddler because we had a daily massage routine. Even as early as three months old she showed how much she enjoyed massage. She would pause in sucking her fingers, widen her eyes and expectantly lift her eyebrows and wait. Once I began her massage, she would slowly suck her fingers and blink her long eyelashes laying there for as long as I decided to massage her little legs and feet.

That daughter, who's almost 5 years old, still enjoys her legs and feet massaged so I am glad that I have that bond with her. And with the "Mommy, Draw Stars on My Tummy" book I could have learned more techniques to develop a massage touch and play routine with all of my children. If you're looking for a way to enhance the interpersonal communication, promote health and well being as well as cognitive development then grab a copy so you can begin drawing stars on your little one's tummy.

*Groeneveld is a registered nurse, licensed massage therapist, certified infant massage instructor and mother of two.

I received the above mentioned books in order to compose these reviews/synopsis. No other compensation was received. The opinions expressed are my own unless otherwise indicated. 

I can see you!

Today is the day I ask ALL of you for a favor. Quite awhile ago I participated in Delurker Day. Well, today is Delurker Day and I'm am calling you out. If you're lurking in the background, reading on the sly or secretly, hanging around to see what's going on or even reading in your email, Facebook or any other alternative virtual place, click on over here and leave me a comment.

Come on; show me whatcha got!

Why? 'Cause it's Delurker Day. One of the pleasures of blogging is getting comments from readers. I don't normally say anything about those lurking (or, like I like to say, stalking) around. I don't tell you to come out and reveal yourself all the time, but every once in awhile I need a little variance in my day to boost my blogging mood.

Revel at The Velveteen Mind has quite a few lurkers as does Greeblemonkey so get a little out of your comfort zone and reveal yourself. For me? :)

Where did I go?

After such a wonderfully creative and inspiring (and well-written!) post on Monday for my weekly inspiration, I just knew this week would be filled with expertly written posts. Well, it kind of has been, but not here. Sadly I didn't do what I said I would do, which was peruse my files for writing fodder when I got stumped. Thought of it - didn't do it.

Even this post seems randomly, meaningless and just yuck.

Okay, deep breathing is in order here.

Let me try this again.

This week has been crazy. The heat in the van, the heat in the house, the printer that won't load to aforementioned laptop (the one I'd like to shoot into the trash can), the misunderstandings, irritations, money issues, children, forgetful brain and all have literally sucked the life right out of my It's-a-woman's-world writing brain and pushed it somewhere else never to be seen from again.

Okay, the end of that was a bit too dramatic, but you know what I mean.

An-t-way, just wanted to let you know that I'm around. Look for me all over the place: Super Amazing Savings, Coupon Trunk, Facebook, Twitter... send me an email even 'cause I've been in my in box more than I've been here.

Enough shameless plugging? Good. But be on the lookout for some more information about a little project I'll be participating in. I'm a little excited 'cause it'll be another opportunity for me to share my wonderful self with the world. As if you wanted more of me, right? :)

Hope your week is going well. Leave a comment and tell me all about it.

Baby memories

Have you ever heard of TextTrust? I hadn't until today. And, no, that has nothing to do with this post except that coming across that site led me to one of my old posts called "What a crazy morning!" Before I could even finish it I was tired. Having a baby is work... Here's a peek at the beginning of that post:

My morning began at 3 a.m. when the baby woke up crying. It was one of those cries that said, "Come get me." Then a misleading pause to make you think they went back to sleep before the "Come get me" gets louder. I stumbled into the children's room and scooped up the baby before she woke up the other children. She was very warm.

It took me a minute to get out of my fog, but I realized that her warmth was not a result of being snuggled comfortably under the blanket... it was coming from the inside of her body. My baby had a temperature.

I grabbed the diaper bag, her sippy cup from the fridge and took everything to my room turning on the light so I could get a good look at her. She was breathing very rapidly and she seemed drowsy. I immediately gave her a dose of Tylenol and encouraged her to drink. She drank thirstily...

 Click here to read the rest of the post...

Online college courses

One of the things I've been strongly considering is going back to school to get another degree - I'd like a master's in creative writing. As most of you, my writing friends, know it isn't a necessity in this field to have advanced degrees. However, I'm one of those crazy individuals who enjoy going to college and learning. That's just to start with. One of the things I'd like to do is teach at a college level, and having that degree would make me qualified to do a little more. Know what I mean?

I've looked at some Online Colleges as I've considered this new chapter (transition?) in my life. I actually think I want to go back to the classroom; even if it's just on a part-time basis. Whatever I decide to do - online or in a classroom - I'll have to consider the pros and cons.

A few of the benefits of taking courses online are:

• lower costs
• saves time
• easier to balance work, school and family
• ability for a more specialized degree (some profess)

For me, the benefits of attending classes on a campus are:

• Face-to-face feedback on writing
• Interaction (I already work from home)
• Meeting new people
• Change of environment

If you're considering going to school or going back to school, think about taking classes online. It's a great opportunity to assist with career advancement and many top universities now offer online courses. A lot of individuals think they don't have the time to pursue a degree, but taking online classes could be just the key to making dreams come true.

What about you? Have you ever taken classes online?

Weekly Inspiration: Just being me

Today things started off a bit slow. To be honest I guess I should say that I started off slowly. It's one of the two Mondays out of the month that I don't have to get up to take the children to school or the youngest to daycare so I took advantage of it by sleeping in. I turned in late last night and took some very drowsy-inducing meds so lazying around this morning didn't seem to be a problem.

Until I got started on my day...

The first thing I noticed when I stumbled out of my bedroom was the temperature. 'Guess I better get someone over here to look at it,' I thought as I quickly showered and dressed.

I sent a text to the neighborhood handyman and he was on his way before I even had a sip of my first cup of coffee. I turned on my computer and found a few things still amiss so I called my computer, best friend guru.

Between the hold ups of getting to work on my computer and discovering that one of my units (the compressor, I think it's called) needs to be replaced... I started getting a little irritable, but I resisted being overcome by my irritability and tried to continue what I was doing. I hoped over to Maternal Spark to read the Weekly Inspiration post and was immediately inspired and encouraged to tackle large projects in bite-sized bits. So how can I do that with my computer issues, my heating issues and other things on my plate?

That's an ongoing question. A question that I can't forget to keep at the top of my mind. If you have large projects that you need to tackle then take Heather's advice at Maternal Spark to bite off a little at a time. (Be sure to check out her post today and join in by sharing your inspiration this week in the comments or on your own blog.) That leads me to what's inspiring me this week

Being me is what's inspiriting me right now. More specifically: Being a blogger. My job/work as a writer and editor inspires me. It's not only the thing that makes me a little mullah, but it's the thing that I most enjoy. I get a high out of writing, creating, being artistic, inspiring, educating and sharing. I can't say that I don't sometimes get frustrated or stressed about it, but at least it's something that I love.

I need to use my love of what I do to fuel me throughout this week and every week. When I get stumped or have writer's block, I should be able to pull up a document on the computer or open a file in my cabinet and use something that has sparked me in the past.

I hope it doesn't sound conceded to say that just being me is what's inspiring me, but it's true. I even wore my blogging t-shirt today as a reminder. Let the week - and the inspiration - begin!

Wrestling with technology

After about two weeks of taking over my daughter's laptop (that she took back to school with her) my best friend, an absolute computer genius, was able to resurrect my old laptop. It took a lot of erasing, removing, deleting, waiting, disconnecting, reloading, rebooting and all kinds of other crazy computer stuff that I have no idea about to get it going again.

He's given me a little more time to get the money together to get the laptop I really want. I'm kind of on borrowed time and I'm going to try not to get too attached to this one 'cause the next time he gets his hands on it (he fixed it virtually this time), he said he's going to wipe it clean and start all over.

Oh, the fun of technology.

It was all fun until I finally sat down today to get some work done and realized I had to install Microsoft Office stuff and re-do all of my settings, etc. So instead of actually beginning with work I've been doing a lot of restarting, downloading and trying to figure out what I'm supposed to be doing.

Now it's time to get some work accomplished. If you need me, I'm the lady sitting on her couch with eyes blurred and frantically clicking and typing. Oh, but it's not that bad: Even with the technology wrestling I have really enjoyed my day so I'm not going to complain or get stressed out.

In the name of beauty

Over the past five years or so I've noticed the changes my body has gone through: The difficulty in losing weight, the change in my shape and size, the relaxation of muscle and skin as well as the little wrinkles, a few gray hairs and some other things I'll spare you from hearing about. With the changes came my acknowledgement of what's beautiful to me.

In my effort to "become more beautiful," I've upped my skincare regimens including creams, lotions, gels and scrubs. Some things I use are proven and long-used beauty treatments like applying Vaseline to my lips twice a day to maintain their softness and using vitamin E oil, cocoa butter or shea butter to soften areas of the skin that are prone to roughness. And some of the products I use are those I've discovered through product reviews like eyelash technologies, wrinkle reducers and skin tighteners. All in the name of beauty.

Honestly, I don't mind. I'm addicted to skincare products.

Although, thankfully, I seem to be on the slower end of the aging cycle I have gazed into the mirror and viewed what I think are reasons to get professional help with some... uh... imperfections, for lack of a better word. That's where somewhere like sono bello can come in. Sono Bello, a body contouring clinic, uses a new Micro Laser Liposuction and Body Sculpting technology that reportedly removes fat cells to enhance and shape areas of the body including the stomach, thighs, chin, back and hips.

The center has skilled and board certified physicians who offer procedures that tighten skin, minimize cellulite and diminish stretch marks. Just a quick stop in Sono Bello to get a little skin tightening is all that's needed to give individuals the body they've always wanted. As long as it's what you want - that's beautiful.

It's official

The past two years have been quite an experience. Well, honestly, the past eight years have been life changing and memorable... quite the experience. I'm sitting here trying to figure out how to verbalize what I'm thinking/feeling and I guess I'm a little stuck.

Relief (re: finality)

Regret (re: union)

Happiness (re: new chapter)

Sadness (re: failure)

Hmmm? There are a lot of emotions swirling around.

When I saw the envelope in my mailbox I knew what it contained. So I wasn't surprised when I read the cover letter, which consisted of two sentences: "Enclosed is a copy of your final Judgment and Decree of Divorce and Income Deduction Order. ..."

Then the wording of the judgement: "... as if no such contract had ever been made or entered into... considered as separate and distinct... unconnected..." Interesting.

I don't know about anyone else, but I think regardless of the circumstances surrounding the dissolution of a marriage there will always be feelings, thoughts, emotions surrounding the finality of it. It's quite a surreal, freeing feeling that causes anxiety and excitement.

Should I celebrate? Cry? Shout? Party? Take a nap? LOL... Well, right now I think I'll just have a third cup of coffee. I deserve it. After eight years, two and a half of those spent separated, I am no longer married.

It's official.

Wordless Wednesday: View from a 4 year old

Photos by Little Miss Amareah using her VTech KidiZoom Camera.

There's more Wordless Wednesday participants at 5 Minutes for Mom.

Oh, and here's one of my previous WW posts.

Is your bowl ready for the big game?

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of 2000 Flushes. All opinions are 100% mine.

Did you know Super Bowl Sunday is one of the busiest days of the year for toilets? Well, I didn't. Supposedly about 90 million toilets will be flushed during halftime.

Why am I talking about toilets, halftime and the Super Bowl? Because 2000 Flushes* is having a "Is Your Bowl Ready for the Big Game?" Sweepstakes where you can enter for a chance to win a grand prize of $10,000 for a bathroom makeover/remodel. You can Enter to Win daily and all entries will go towards the grand prize. Weekly winners will also be drawn on the following Friday (for more information on the weeks, see the official rules). There will be 99 weekly prizes of free product in the form of a coupon for free 2000 Flushes product.

Entering to win is easy: All you have to do is go to bowl-season.2000flushesbrand.com, the sweepstakes microsite, and fill out the form. The contest is open from November 30, 2009 to March 1, 2010. The grand prize and weekly winners will be randomly selected with the grand prize winner awarded on March 15, 2010. Winning a weekly prize does not effect your chances of winning the grand prize.

*2000 Flushes® keeps your toilet bowl sanitary and clean for up to four months. It's sold nationally through most grocery, drug, home improvement, mass merchandiser like Target and Wal-Mar, and other retail outlets. It is also available online. You can print a coupon for $1 off 2000 Flushes from the sweepstakes site.
Distribution of products by 2000 Flushes, a WD-40 Company, to Participating Parties (media, bloggers, or other third parties or individuals) for the purpose of review and/or endorsement are done so in faith that the Participating Parties will be in compliance with FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION 16 CFR Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising and other related regulations, applicable statutes, regulations, or requirements of any government authority as they relate to subsequent posts or promotional material featuring 2000 Flushes or any of its products resulting from distribution by 2000 Flushes.

 

Mind over matter

I've been hesitant to write my health and weight loss journal this week. I'm not really sure why... I guess it's because I don't really want to think about everything that is going through my head about my health or evaluate how I have been feeling.

Let's start with the easy part: The weight.

The good news is that I still fit in my clothes. LOL... the bad news is that I haven't been exercising (not even yoga) and I've been eating a bunch of sugar. I'm going to blame that on having the teenager at home. Don't tell her I said that. I guess it's not all her fault 'cause my sweet tooth has been going crazy. I think it's a lot of emotional eating too. I don't usually get caught up in that and normally have a lot of control, but I think the parts of my life that I can't control are unconsciously overwhelming my mind and manifesting into serious snack attacks.

You will not believe how many chocolate covered pretzels I had last night in addition to the sugar cookie. Yup, all Amber's fault 'cause she bought the pretzels and made the cookies, but they were soooo good!

Still - as I've said over and over and over again - I'd like to figure out a way to add working out and yoga into my day. I already get up at 5:30ish and I don't rise moving full force so oftentimes I still run late.

That kind of leads to the health side of things...

It's hard to get up moving full force when you're body is working against you. I'm drowsy from the meds, sore from the illnesses (?) disease (?) conditions (?)... you know what I mean. By the time the drowsiness wears off, I have to get the children up, fed, dressed and out the door. And, of course, the later I wait in the day the less time and energy I have to do it.

But wait! There was something I wrote last year about taking the time to exercise. Let me see if I can find it... Oh yea, it was a post called Fittin' it in with dance, yoga. Click over to check out the entire post, but here is the part I am talking about:

... My free feeling started to dwindle away and my face started to frown, and then I was irritated about not having time to do yoga. Geez, I went from one freeing feeling to a total irritating irritation!


I suddenly thought of an article I had read earlier in body+soul magazine about doing certain yoga moves to assist in building the immune system in fighting colds and flu and I decided to do yoga right that moment. Right in the hallway.

Getting out my yoga mat, book, CD, block and strap is such a process. Yoga books recommend wearing certain clothing and being freshly showered while having a designated spot and mat that is just for that. All of that preparation was hindering me in getting it done. ...

I need to do that again - fit in the movement to assist in my overall health. It's an ongoing task and battle.

Okay, honestly, I haven't been feeling that great. I've had a weird throat thing going on for several days. Headaches. My left thigh and lower left side of my back or something has been hurting really bad. Yesterday was absolutely awful! Today I feel "better," so to speak. It's a pain that I occasionally have that lingers for about a few days to several weeks or a couple of months. This seems like the worse it's ever been. I don't know if the cold has made it worse (less than 17 degrees in the morning and about 30 or so during the day), but whatever is causing the pain is really bothersome.

Instead of making another appointment, I'm trying to wait until the next appointment that I have. I'm there - at the VA hospital - so much that I just don't want to go again right now. I'm already feeling a bit bothered about the liver biopsy I'm going to have. It hasn't been scheduled yet and the impending doom of it all is looming.

My effort not to worry is thwarted by the way my body feels. It's a constant reminder of ongoing medical issues. I'll just click on over to the ChronicBabe site and do a little networking and reading; it's always helpful to "hang out" with folks who literally understand the dilemmas of "invisible disease."

Tons of term papers

My oldest child, Amber, returns to college this weekend to begin the second semester of her freshman year. She is a little ahead of the curve, credit wise, so I guess you could call her a freshman and a forth. Regardless of where she is in her college career she will always have term papers to write. With only a little over a semester under her belt she's already written about six papers, and I'm sure there are a lot more to come. (Especially since her major is chemistry and she wants to be a pre-med student who will eventually be a pediatrician.)

Although most students tough it out and write their papers with little assistance from others there is always help available online, at their campus student centers, through fellow students as well as from professors. Writing term papers is definitely a part of all educational endeavors so stop reading and get to writing.

Found words

I discovered the following scribbled on the page of a magazine one day and I ripped it out to save. It seems like I had a thought while reading and I wanted to get it down right away. I thought it was the beginning of a story or a poem, but when I finally read it I see it was just free flow. It's unedited... well, I may have changed a word or two, but it's not re-written.

Thoughts in summer...
I like the outdoors, but I don't like to be outside. The heat, the bugs... they both go against what I find enjoyable. But if the clouds suddenly interrupt the sun's rays, a breeze picks up and the birds begin a frantic song it's the perfect time for me to enjoy being outside. The bugs relax a little and I can concentrate on the sound of the leaves and the darkening of the sky.

I can think without sweat pouring down my face. The breeze ignites my thoughts and my underlying love of nature. Now, under the cover of clouds with a light warmth my thoughts turn to dreams. I imagine myself in the plane that's passing overhead. I don't look; I just see it within my mind... another place where being outside is perfect.

I'm not sure what I was going to do with those words, but I couldn't just throw them away. That would seem a waste. Just thought I would share them with you.

Happy Monday.

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