What is your favorite guilty pleasure?
Mine has always been reality TV. I always describe myself as a reality TV junkie and proud of it. I mean it's part of my tagline for crying out loud. But is it really a guilty pleasure e if it's something you don't feel guilty about?
Until recently, that is.
As you know I love me some Bachelor/Bachelorette, who doesn't? I had never given into Bachelor In Paradise {BIP from here on out} franchise and really never thought twice about it. This summer I thought, "what the heck?" and decided I'd enjoy this train wreck too. Except after watching the first episode I felt so icky. I guess I should have known what I was signing myself up for but this was so much worse/gross/traumatizing/sad than any season of The Bachelor/Bachelorette {in my opinion}. I gave it until episode 3 {or maybe it was 4} before I finally gave up on it.
Shortly after I had 4 or 5 episodes of KUWTK recorded on the DVR along with 4 or 5 episodes of Botched and 3 episodes of UnREAL {I know it's not technically a reality show} that I just clicked 'delete' on. You guys, IT FELT SO GOOD. I can't even tell you the feeling just seeing those shows on my recorded list gave me. I literally felt wrong watching it. Like I'd be embarrassed if someone came over and saw those shows I recorded. I guess I do have a moral compass?
Recently I've been making lots of changes in the guilty pleasure department. On top of getting rid of some {let's face it I can't give up on my Housewives} reality/trash TV, I've changed up my morning rituals. I used to wake up and grab my phone of the nightstand first thing, doesn't everyone? I'd gaze into that screen all sleepy-eyed and squinting until my eyes adjusted to the brightness. I'd scroll through the last 9 hours of my Instagram feed, catch up on all my Snap stories, check my email and maybe even entertain Twitter if I was really avoiding my feet hitting the floor. I realized that when I did that, if there was something I saw/read/heard THAT early int the morning it kind of, sort of affected my day. Some days I'd see/hear/read good things and that was fine but the days where I'd see/hear/read something that wasn't necessarily uplifting to me it kinda put me in a funk for the whole day. It probably sounds pretty sad that I could let social media affect me that way but I'm sure someone can relate.
So instead of grabbing for my phone first thing, I simply turn off my alarm and head to the kitchen. I make a cup of coffee and I sit down with my journal. I've never been much of a journal person so I didn't know exactly how I was going to like journaling but I have found it to be very therapeutic. I've been doing daily affirmations/mantras every day right when I wake up with my cup of {hot} coffee. Once I am done I pray over them and I start my day. I cannot tell you the difference it has made in my life. It's helped me be more successful with my job, it's helped me control my poor eating habits, it's helped me stay focused on the good rather than dwell on the negative, it's helped me be more present with my kids. It's definitely a better way to start my day than scrolling through other people's lives.
I've also started reading more. I've always liked reading but I never made time for it. I used to only read at bedtime which was not productive because I'd fall asleep after 10 pages and then wonder why it took me months to finish a book. Since I've cut out some of my trash TV I've started reading more, randomly, in the middle of the day and it feels good to get lost in a book again. I just started reading The Passenger and I'm already hooked and I'm only a few chapters in {what is going on with this woman?!}. I'm sure my brain is happy to be doing more constructive things than watching young singles hookup, break up and then hookup again.
So what are some of your favorite guilty pleasures? Do you feel guilty about them? Does that still make them guilty pleasures?
Showing posts with label random. Show all posts
Showing posts with label random. Show all posts
September 14, 2016
December 23, 2013
Coffee Talk
Everyone seemed to like the idea of us "having coffee together" last week so I thought I'd continue it this week. Maybe I'll make it a link up or maybe not, I haven't decided, but if you want to "chat" leave me a link to your post so I can stop by.
***
Moms don't get sick days. I went to bed all stuffed up and breathing out of my mouth, the worst. I normally don't do NyQuil or anything of the sort because I'm still waking up with little people every so often and I hate to think that I'd sleep through them because I'm all doped up on cough syrup. But last night? I took that ish. I slept amazing, thankfully both babes slept through the night. When Kendall woke me up a little before 7 I thought I was on a different planet. Holy guacamole. I still feel like poo today, two days before Christmas, but we'll make the most of it. I'd really like to pass out on the couch with my new Daydream Blanket but such is life.
***
I'm so bummed that I missed the SNL with Jimmy Fallon and Justin Timberlake {my two favs, especially when they're together} this weekend. I don't watch much TV these days so I never know when things like this are happening in advance so that I could set my DVR. I woke up Sunday to everyone, and I mean everyone, on my social media feeds talking about how funny it was. So now I just have to catch clips from The Today show and wait for a rerun.
***
We celebrated Christmas with Jimmy's side of the family last night and it was magical. Watching Kendall's reaction to each and every gift she opened was the highlight of my night. She opened a My Little Pony from Jimmy's aunt and said, "I could just cry for days! This is SO SWEET!" and then I died a little. I was also reminded how blessed we are. My in-laws are the most amazing, giving, sweet,warm, loving people on this planet and I am so so lucky to have married into this family. I spent Saturday with my grandma, icing our famous sugar cookies, and she hugged me and told me how thankful she was that I have the Dew family. They truly are special people.
***
Do you do a big New Years celebration? I've never gone out, like to a bar or club or whatever, for New Years. It's always been with a few people at someone's house, kid-friendly, and just good clean fun. This year will be no different. We are planning on going over to our friends house, maybe in PJs, and just being with our friends. Christmas is all about family and I feel like New Years is all about friends, I like it that way.
***
I made two pizzas this weekend, a taco pizza Saturday night for dinner and a cold veggie pizza for Christmas yesterday. We used to make Pizza Fridays a regular thing around here and I would experiment with the dough/crusts, toppings, sauces, etc. I think I finally found my favorite crust. The refrigerated Pilsbury pizza dough. Why didn't I think to buy this before? My veggie pizza called for it and now I'm hooked. All pizzas in this house will be made with it from now on. Genius, no mixing, letting it rise, involved. Sold.
***
My house seriously looks like Toys R Us exploded in here, already. Normally this type of thing sends me into a cleaning frenzy, I cannot stand messes, but today? I'm OK with it. Maybe because I don't feel good and all I want to do is drink this coffee and lay on the couch or maybe because I know there is more to come {on Christmas} so why bother? Either way, Kendall is loving all 1,376,340 new My Little Pony toys and I'm loving watching her imagination.
***
So I saw that my friend Ashley posted a Best Moments in 2013 on her IG yesterday and naturally I had to do the same. I think it's safe to say 2013 was all about Baby James Weston. It's going to be a tough year to top.
***
Moms don't get sick days. I went to bed all stuffed up and breathing out of my mouth, the worst. I normally don't do NyQuil or anything of the sort because I'm still waking up with little people every so often and I hate to think that I'd sleep through them because I'm all doped up on cough syrup. But last night? I took that ish. I slept amazing, thankfully both babes slept through the night. When Kendall woke me up a little before 7 I thought I was on a different planet. Holy guacamole. I still feel like poo today, two days before Christmas, but we'll make the most of it. I'd really like to pass out on the couch with my new Daydream Blanket but such is life.
***
I'm so bummed that I missed the SNL with Jimmy Fallon and Justin Timberlake {my two favs, especially when they're together} this weekend. I don't watch much TV these days so I never know when things like this are happening in advance so that I could set my DVR. I woke up Sunday to everyone, and I mean everyone, on my social media feeds talking about how funny it was. So now I just have to catch clips from The Today show and wait for a rerun.
***
We celebrated Christmas with Jimmy's side of the family last night and it was magical. Watching Kendall's reaction to each and every gift she opened was the highlight of my night. She opened a My Little Pony from Jimmy's aunt and said, "I could just cry for days! This is SO SWEET!" and then I died a little. I was also reminded how blessed we are. My in-laws are the most amazing, giving, sweet,warm, loving people on this planet and I am so so lucky to have married into this family. I spent Saturday with my grandma, icing our famous sugar cookies, and she hugged me and told me how thankful she was that I have the Dew family. They truly are special people.
***
Do you do a big New Years celebration? I've never gone out, like to a bar or club or whatever, for New Years. It's always been with a few people at someone's house, kid-friendly, and just good clean fun. This year will be no different. We are planning on going over to our friends house, maybe in PJs, and just being with our friends. Christmas is all about family and I feel like New Years is all about friends, I like it that way.
***
I made two pizzas this weekend, a taco pizza Saturday night for dinner and a cold veggie pizza for Christmas yesterday. We used to make Pizza Fridays a regular thing around here and I would experiment with the dough/crusts, toppings, sauces, etc. I think I finally found my favorite crust. The refrigerated Pilsbury pizza dough. Why didn't I think to buy this before? My veggie pizza called for it and now I'm hooked. All pizzas in this house will be made with it from now on. Genius, no mixing, letting it rise, involved. Sold.
***
My house seriously looks like Toys R Us exploded in here, already. Normally this type of thing sends me into a cleaning frenzy, I cannot stand messes, but today? I'm OK with it. Maybe because I don't feel good and all I want to do is drink this coffee and lay on the couch or maybe because I know there is more to come {on Christmas} so why bother? Either way, Kendall is loving all 1,376,340 new My Little Pony toys and I'm loving watching her imagination.
***
So I saw that my friend Ashley posted a Best Moments in 2013 on her IG yesterday and naturally I had to do the same. I think it's safe to say 2013 was all about Baby James Weston. It's going to be a tough year to top.
December 16, 2013
Monday Morning Coffee Talk
Good Morning! I slept awful last night, how bout you? I swear I saw every hour last night even though James slept {is still sleeping} all night and Kendall only woke up twice to potty. I was restless, couldn't get comfortable, was hot, you name it. Jimmy woke me up at 6 am because he couldn't find his badge for work and I said, to myself, "forget it! I'm just getting up!" So, here I sit and I'm going to just pretend that I'm meeting a friend for coffee and we're going to chat. OK?
***
I'm kind of over the whole Elf on the Shelf thing. We started him, on accident, way too early this year and, well, he's lost his luster. Every night, just as I've climbed in bed, I think, "SHIT! I didn't move Rich!" and I crawl out of bed to find some magical place to put him. Truth be told, we have not been creative at all this year. Last year, our first year, I went all out and every night was some new elf antics. This year? He's just in a new hiding place because I just can't. Our advent calendar, on the other hand, I'm loving. Kendall wakes up every day and says, "Is it time to open our first envelope?" even though it's the 15th one, she still calls it the first and I kinda love that. We've had a couple of days we've had to "fudge" for whatever reason but overall it's a hit and we're loving all the special memories. Today we make ornaments!
***
I hosted a cookie exchange party at my house yesterday, for the first time. My "blog friends" and my "in real life friends" got to meet so now when I tell my IRL friends "Yeah, so and so, my blog friend..." they don't think I'm a crazy person anymore. It was so much fun having my two worlds come together, if you will. I had lots of kids running around, way too many cookies, and lots of laughs. And, guess what? I didn't Instagram a moment of it! It was kind of liberating.
***
Speaking of, do you think that social media has kind of taken the "be here, now-ness" out of events? I feel like, anymore, people {myself included} are so quick to take a pic for Instagram or to post on Facebook that we aren't actually just living in the moment anymore? I kinda hate that, ya know? Like yesterday instead of worrying about sharing my delicious adult hot chocolate I just enjoyed drinking it with my closest friends, no photo necessary. Before we went to bed last night I told Jimmy, "You know, I didn't get on Instagram at all today!" like it was some sort of victory, and, truth be told, it kind of was. Pathetic but true. I'm going to be better about that.
***
I have had our Christmas cards for a week or so now yet they're still sitting, addressed, on the counter waiting for stamps. Ugh, I loathe going to the post office, especially with two tiny tots in tow, but I guess I better get on it seeing as Christmas is less than 10 days away. We've been receiving cards upon cards and I have all but two photo cards. I got to thinking, when I was growing up we NEVER sent a photo card or a photo in our card, just a plain Christmas card from the giant box that you buy at Target. Now everyone sends a photo card and I love it. I love seeing the people we love and what their families look like, what they've been up to, etc. I love that this tradition is changing.
***
I think we've reached the end of napping days, for Kendall. She hasn't taken a nap for the past four days. You guys, I'm so sad about this. I look forward to naps. It's my time to get things done, whether it be laundry, prepping for dinner, checking emails, catching up on the DVR, whatever. Luckily she's been going into her room for at least two hours, one day I even thought she had fallen asleep because she was being so good and quiet. If she does that then I'm OK with no naps because it still gives me a chance to collect my thoughts and recharge MY battery. So, I guess it's not so bad actually.
***
We still have the majority of our Christmas shopping to do. Like, we've only bought for two people so far. I hate that we are last minute shoppers, hate it, it stresses me out. I always say, every year, that I'm going to be one of those people who starts shopping EARLY and has it all done by some magical before Christmas date, in my head. It never happens. And this also means we're actually going to have to go out in the crazy to shop because I don't trust that stuff will get here in time, at this point.
***
I need help. Baby James has chubby little feet and no socks will stay on him. He kick, kick, kicks all day and I'm constantly putting his socks on. I need to know what your favorite baby socks are, ones that will stay put! I used to love the Circo ones from Target but now those aren't staying on either. I've even bought bigger sizes, 6-12 months, but he still kicks them off. Little booger. So share with me your sock secrets, please.
***
I'm kind of over the whole Elf on the Shelf thing. We started him, on accident, way too early this year and, well, he's lost his luster. Every night, just as I've climbed in bed, I think, "SHIT! I didn't move Rich!" and I crawl out of bed to find some magical place to put him. Truth be told, we have not been creative at all this year. Last year, our first year, I went all out and every night was some new elf antics. This year? He's just in a new hiding place because I just can't. Our advent calendar, on the other hand, I'm loving. Kendall wakes up every day and says, "Is it time to open our first envelope?" even though it's the 15th one, she still calls it the first and I kinda love that. We've had a couple of days we've had to "fudge" for whatever reason but overall it's a hit and we're loving all the special memories. Today we make ornaments!
***
I hosted a cookie exchange party at my house yesterday, for the first time. My "blog friends" and my "in real life friends" got to meet so now when I tell my IRL friends "Yeah, so and so, my blog friend..." they don't think I'm a crazy person anymore. It was so much fun having my two worlds come together, if you will. I had lots of kids running around, way too many cookies, and lots of laughs. And, guess what? I didn't Instagram a moment of it! It was kind of liberating.
***
Speaking of, do you think that social media has kind of taken the "be here, now-ness" out of events? I feel like, anymore, people {myself included} are so quick to take a pic for Instagram or to post on Facebook that we aren't actually just living in the moment anymore? I kinda hate that, ya know? Like yesterday instead of worrying about sharing my delicious adult hot chocolate I just enjoyed drinking it with my closest friends, no photo necessary. Before we went to bed last night I told Jimmy, "You know, I didn't get on Instagram at all today!" like it was some sort of victory, and, truth be told, it kind of was. Pathetic but true. I'm going to be better about that.
***
I have had our Christmas cards for a week or so now yet they're still sitting, addressed, on the counter waiting for stamps. Ugh, I loathe going to the post office, especially with two tiny tots in tow, but I guess I better get on it seeing as Christmas is less than 10 days away. We've been receiving cards upon cards and I have all but two photo cards. I got to thinking, when I was growing up we NEVER sent a photo card or a photo in our card, just a plain Christmas card from the giant box that you buy at Target. Now everyone sends a photo card and I love it. I love seeing the people we love and what their families look like, what they've been up to, etc. I love that this tradition is changing.
***
I think we've reached the end of napping days, for Kendall. She hasn't taken a nap for the past four days. You guys, I'm so sad about this. I look forward to naps. It's my time to get things done, whether it be laundry, prepping for dinner, checking emails, catching up on the DVR, whatever. Luckily she's been going into her room for at least two hours, one day I even thought she had fallen asleep because she was being so good and quiet. If she does that then I'm OK with no naps because it still gives me a chance to collect my thoughts and recharge MY battery. So, I guess it's not so bad actually.
***
We still have the majority of our Christmas shopping to do. Like, we've only bought for two people so far. I hate that we are last minute shoppers, hate it, it stresses me out. I always say, every year, that I'm going to be one of those people who starts shopping EARLY and has it all done by some magical before Christmas date, in my head. It never happens. And this also means we're actually going to have to go out in the crazy to shop because I don't trust that stuff will get here in time, at this point.
***
I need help. Baby James has chubby little feet and no socks will stay on him. He kick, kick, kicks all day and I'm constantly putting his socks on. I need to know what your favorite baby socks are, ones that will stay put! I used to love the Circo ones from Target but now those aren't staying on either. I've even bought bigger sizes, 6-12 months, but he still kicks them off. Little booger. So share with me your sock secrets, please.
December 9, 2013
Confessions...
- I have never seen It's A Wonderful Life. Every year I swear I'm going to watch it, I need to watch it, it's a classic for crying out loud. Each year I say THIS is the year and I have still yet to watch it. Jimmy's never seen it either. I mean this has to be some sort of Christmas sin, right?
- I don't read sponsored posts. Sure, I do them but it doesn't mean I like them. I do them because some months we need that money, it pays our bills, and other months it's my "fun money". Either way, I know they're boring to read and that's why I chose to pass over them in my dashboard. It's fine and if you hate them you should do the same.
- I said that I hated printed leggings and I still do hate the Aztec styles, but I'm starting to come around to the idea of them. If I weren't sporting these post-pregnancy thunder thighs I might even buy myself a pair. Perhaps next winter I'll be 40lbs lighter and perhaps they'll still be "in style". Until then I'll be rocking my fleece lined solid black ones and loving every minute of it.
- I probably won't get Jimmy anything for Christmas. Money is...tight, and as long as our babies have presents to open on Christmas morning I'll be happy. I don't need anything either so he better save his pennies too.
- I went to church without showering yesterday. Jimmy was sick and complaining of how achy he was so I had assumed we weren't going. Thirty minutes before service starts he told me he wanted to go, and reminded me that we'd regret it if we didn't go, and so I had 30 minutes to get me and 2 tots ready and out the door. Thank goodness for a relax church that doesn't frown upon a slouchy knit hat to hide the greasies.
- No matter how many "atta girls" I get on this blog and various other social media outlets, the ONE "you suck" is what sticks with me. I hate that about myself and wish I could just let that stuff roll off my back but I can't and it will bother me all day.
- As much as I love eMeals
{I really do} and the service they provide, I've had to take a break from it for the time being. We were spending WAY too much on our groceries every week and right now, at Christmastime, it wasn't working. Maybe after the holidays, when my husband starts getting a full paycheck again, we'll revisit it because I really did love it and the recipes were delicious.
- I got a little emotional watching Frozen this weekend. Have you seen it? It is SO cute and I want to go see it again, we loved it. Kendall sat still and didn't take her eyes off the screen the whole time. I loved the ending and that it wasn't your typical, "a kiss from the prince" saves the day ending. LOVED it.
- I gave James rice cereal about a week ago. He's eating 8 oz now and he is still eating every 3 hours so I thought maybe he needed something more. He hated it. Like a lot. We had cereal everywhere and a bath was required after all was said and done. Soooo...8 oz every 3 hours it is.
- I used to think that wedge salads were disgusting. Truth be told I had never actually had one. I went out on a limb one day and ordered one at lunch and freakin' love them. Like order one every time we go to a restaurant now.
- I steam mopped my floors this weekend for the first time since James has been born. Seriously loathe steam mopping and I'm not sure why. It looks so good when it's done and it really doesn't take that much time. I'm a little repulsed by how dirty the cleaning pad when it was over. Clean floors FTW!
Don't judge me, or do, either way, Happy Monday.
September 6, 2013
What I'm Loving
Hair.
I've been growing my hair out for some time now. I always grow it and then chop it and this time I've done a good job at not doing that. Till now. I'm getting the itch, seems like that always happens around fall. Last year I went ombre and loved it but I'm not ready to change my color again. I'm loving this cut because it's not too short but looks super easy. I love that it's longer in the front, shorter in the back. Sooo...I'm thinking of taking the plunge.
Dress.
I stocked up on some easy, can wear as my body changes pieces before I had James. All from Old Navy, of course. I got two of these dresses figuring they'd be comfy and I'd be able to dress them up or down and boy was I right. These have been my go-to "outfits" since James has been born. I wear them with sandals, flats, belted in the middle, so easy and so versatile and surprisingly flattering! Highly recommend.
I've been growing my hair out for some time now. I always grow it and then chop it and this time I've done a good job at not doing that. Till now. I'm getting the itch, seems like that always happens around fall. Last year I went ombre and loved it but I'm not ready to change my color again. I'm loving this cut because it's not too short but looks super easy. I love that it's longer in the front, shorter in the back. Sooo...I'm thinking of taking the plunge.
Dress.
I stocked up on some easy, can wear as my body changes pieces before I had James. All from Old Navy, of course. I got two of these dresses figuring they'd be comfy and I'd be able to dress them up or down and boy was I right. These have been my go-to "outfits" since James has been born. I wear them with sandals, flats, belted in the middle, so easy and so versatile and surprisingly flattering! Highly recommend.
TV.
As you know, or maybe you don't, Jimmy and I do not agree on movies. At all. TV shows we can do, we love watching series together on Netflix. We are just finishing Dexter and so we decided we better find a new love and so we've started Weeds recently. OMG I am in love. It's so wrong in so many ways, obviously, but I cannot help but be obsessed with it. It's funny, the cast is great, makes you think, "OMG this could be MY neighborhood" all at the same time. I'm so glad there are like a million episodes.
Blog.
I love love love my blog design and love my blog designer even more. She's having a super sale on blog designs next week {Sept.13-15} and she's offering a FULL blog design for just $30! I am taking her up on this offer and here's a little peak at what I'm thinking.
Coffee.
You know I'm a coffee with my creamer kind of girl. I've scaled back on the sugar/Spledna but the cream I cannot skimp on. I love it. I will pretty much try any creamer that comes out {so long as my grocery store carries it, which is not very likely} and sometimes I'm in love and other times I'm gagging. This time, I'm in love. If you haven't tried the Coffee-Mate Coconut Caramel {aka Girl Scout Samoa} you are missing out. SO GOOD!
Reading.
I saw this floating around on Facebook yesterday and finally got to read it last night when the babies were in bed. I needed that. It's funny how that works. That's something I love about blogs. It's like just when I am having a crap-tastic day I find a post written by a fellow blogger that just makes me instantly feel better. If you are feeling like a defeated, tired, not good enough mom I suggest you check it out.
Readers.
Thank you all for your kind words and encouragement on my post yesterday {except for YOU, "Samantha"}. Please know that most of our days are still good, in fact yesterday was our first/only "bad" day since James has been born. Once everyone got his/her nap life was good again. Here's hoping today & this weekend is awesome!
July 29, 2013
Preschool, Pregnancy and Pool Days {and other words that start with 'P'}
Today's post is brought to you by the letter 'P'. But not really.
***
So Kendall starts preschool in just over a month. I am excited, anxious, nervous {for her}, but most all I'm really really happy. I know that she is going to thrive in a more structured environment with a schedule and someone else teaching her. It's especially good that it's happening so soon to her becoming a Big Sister because preschool will be her special thing. Something she'll have to look forward to {hopefully} and will get her out of the house at least two days a week. She's so smart and I can't wait to see her grow.
With that being said, what the heck do I send her to school with? We had to pay an extra $15 with the first month's tuition for school supplies so does that mean I don't need to send her with any? I kinda started looking forward to stuffing her little Dora backpack full of colored pencils, a notepad and box of tissues but maybe I don't need to do that? I have no idea. Also do I just send her in tennis shoes the first day? I have a feeling that play clothes are going to be recommended so I don't think sending her in her cutest sundress and sandals is probably a good idea, right? Help this preschool newbie mom out!
***
So we are nearing The End with this pregnancy business. I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel, 16 more days {but who's counting?}. I'm still hoping that I somehow have him before then but at least I know that the longest I have to wait is just over two more weeks. I cannot wait to see his little face, see what color hair he has {if any}, if he has the Dew little button nose and most of all I cannot wait for my Big Girl to meet her Baby Brother that we've been talking about for roughly 9 months.
The other day Jimmy and I were talking about being pregnant and we both agreed that I am not a pleasant pregnant lady and Jimmy asked if anyone actually liked being pregnant. I know there are people who love it, I've read their blogs and I am one of them until about 28 weeks at which point I am d-o-n-e. I shouldn't complain because I have relatively easy pregnancies however the last trimester is torture. Things ache, body parts that you usually aren't aware of are suddenly screaming with pain, and the anticipation of your new arrival is just enough to send you into a frenzy.
***
Are you experiencing this blast of fall weather like we are in Ohio? It's glorious, isn't it? I mean the highs have been in the mid 70s which means our windows are wide open and the fresh air feels amazing. It's like a pregnant woman's dream come true forecast. We had a cookout with our friends yesterday and I even wore a jean jacket, it was glorious. However, I am not ready for summer to be over. Would you believe that the stores have Oktoberfest out already? True story. So the 70s can stay but the winter better not be soon behind because I still have a couple pool days left in my system.
***
Kendall's 3rd birthday party is this weekend. I cannot believe this is the 3rd party I've planned for her, 3rd! Crazy business. This year I'm keeping it simple {hello I'm 100 months pregnant} and letting the fine folks at Chuck-E-Cheese do the dirty work, literally. I am so happy we went with this decision mainly because it's Kendall's favorite place on Earth but also because of the easy factor. I just show up 15 minutes prior to party time with cupcakes and they take care of the rest {even favor bags!!!}. Surprisingly it wasn't that expensive either, I'm pretty sure I spend more between decorations, food, presents, etc throwing a party at home. And? I get to leave the mess there? Win, win.
***
So Kendall starts preschool in just over a month. I am excited, anxious, nervous {for her}, but most all I'm really really happy. I know that she is going to thrive in a more structured environment with a schedule and someone else teaching her. It's especially good that it's happening so soon to her becoming a Big Sister because preschool will be her special thing. Something she'll have to look forward to {hopefully} and will get her out of the house at least two days a week. She's so smart and I can't wait to see her grow.
With that being said, what the heck do I send her to school with? We had to pay an extra $15 with the first month's tuition for school supplies so does that mean I don't need to send her with any? I kinda started looking forward to stuffing her little Dora backpack full of colored pencils, a notepad and box of tissues but maybe I don't need to do that? I have no idea. Also do I just send her in tennis shoes the first day? I have a feeling that play clothes are going to be recommended so I don't think sending her in her cutest sundress and sandals is probably a good idea, right? Help this preschool newbie mom out!
***
So we are nearing The End with this pregnancy business. I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel, 16 more days {but who's counting?}. I'm still hoping that I somehow have him before then but at least I know that the longest I have to wait is just over two more weeks. I cannot wait to see his little face, see what color hair he has {if any}, if he has the Dew little button nose and most of all I cannot wait for my Big Girl to meet her Baby Brother that we've been talking about for roughly 9 months.
The other day Jimmy and I were talking about being pregnant and we both agreed that I am not a pleasant pregnant lady and Jimmy asked if anyone actually liked being pregnant. I know there are people who love it, I've read their blogs and I am one of them until about 28 weeks at which point I am d-o-n-e. I shouldn't complain because I have relatively easy pregnancies however the last trimester is torture. Things ache, body parts that you usually aren't aware of are suddenly screaming with pain, and the anticipation of your new arrival is just enough to send you into a frenzy.
***
Are you experiencing this blast of fall weather like we are in Ohio? It's glorious, isn't it? I mean the highs have been in the mid 70s which means our windows are wide open and the fresh air feels amazing. It's like a pregnant woman's dream come true forecast. We had a cookout with our friends yesterday and I even wore a jean jacket, it was glorious. However, I am not ready for summer to be over. Would you believe that the stores have Oktoberfest out already? True story. So the 70s can stay but the winter better not be soon behind because I still have a couple pool days left in my system.
***
Kendall's 3rd birthday party is this weekend. I cannot believe this is the 3rd party I've planned for her, 3rd! Crazy business. This year I'm keeping it simple {hello I'm 100 months pregnant} and letting the fine folks at Chuck-E-Cheese do the dirty work, literally. I am so happy we went with this decision mainly because it's Kendall's favorite place on Earth but also because of the easy factor. I just show up 15 minutes prior to party time with cupcakes and they take care of the rest {even favor bags!!!}. Surprisingly it wasn't that expensive either, I'm pretty sure I spend more between decorations, food, presents, etc throwing a party at home. And? I get to leave the mess there? Win, win.
***
We're having our first homeownership issue this week, the plumbing in our kitchen sink is leaking into our garage. As if having a broken dishwasher weren't complete torture {a new one is being delivered Thursday} but now we have a water leak. My husband is pretty handy and can fix most things but plumbing is not one of them and so that sucks. Why couldn't we have an electrical short or an outlet that needs replaced? My dad is coming to take a look {love that he is so handy} and hopefully it's a simple fix. I've never had to call a contractor for any home things so I don't even know where to begin.
***
We've been saying for months that Kendall's Big Sister gift was going to be the Pinky Pie Pony from Build-A-Bear. Well, wouldn't you know, we went to "build" it this weekend and she's gone. Discontinued. #parentfail. We did get a brochure all about Twilight Sparkle, the newest My Little Pony to join the Build-A-Bear team, so hopefully we can sell her on it before the 14th. Meanwhile, she's still talking about Pinky Pie... June 4, 2013
Karma
Last week I started off with a snarky, woe-is-me post and you know what happened? The week just got more "awesome". I swear things went from suck to suckier to suckiest really quick. I wound up catching whatever spring cold KP had and if you've ever been pregnant and sick you know you'd rather have someone rip your toenails out one at a time than have another cold without being able to take cold meds. Then we had multiple nights of a newborn sleeping toddler. As if being sick weren't enough, let's throw waking up at 5:50 am into the mix. Followed by our dishwasher is on it's last leg, we are dog sitting, a playdate gone wrong, and I haven't been on the treadmill in over a week. I'd just prefer to think last week never happened.
So this week we started out on a better note. Over the weekend we traded in my car for something that is cheaper but still afforded us the same "necessities" as the Equinox. When we bought the Equinox I still had a job and my gigantic car payment wasn't an issue. Fast forward on month later and I was laid off and we've been "making it work" for the past year and a half. Saturday Jimmy decided enough was enough and we went to see what our options were at the local dealership. We walked out with a Dodge Journey and an extra $100 in our pockets every month. Win, win!
So this week we started out on a better note. Over the weekend we traded in my car for something that is cheaper but still afforded us the same "necessities" as the Equinox. When we bought the Equinox I still had a job and my gigantic car payment wasn't an issue. Fast forward on month later and I was laid off and we've been "making it work" for the past year and a half. Saturday Jimmy decided enough was enough and we went to see what our options were at the local dealership. We walked out with a Dodge Journey and an extra $100 in our pockets every month. Win, win!
Sunday got even better. Not only did I wake up feeling better {although still slightly stuffy} but Jimmy woke up with Kendall {first time for everything} and drop off at church went smooth{er}. It wound up being a great, sunny, but not too hot day so we took Jimmy's "new" boat out for a family fun-filled afternoon.
{Family hand holding in daddy's truck was my favorite moment from yesterday, I think we should drive in it more often.}
Then yesterday I posted the newest peace tee sale in hopes of raising money for little Violet and you guys are blowing me away! I think it's safe to say that this is going to be our biggest order yet and Amy better have her sewing fingers ready! It's times like these that I really wish I knew how to sew so that I could help her!
Karma is a real thing, people. Here I thought I was being all witty and funny with a side of snark when in reality I was just oozing negativity. Literally it was like pouring out of every pore in my body, my mom even told me to go home and go to bed. This week I'm choosing good. Good thoughts, good deeds, good words in hopes of receiving those same things in return. So far, so good.
April 8, 2013
Monday Meanies
{We will return with our regular, light-hearted posts after I get a few things off my chest this morning.}
I don't know what has happened to my great sleeping child but for the past few weeks she's regressed back to her infant nights. I don't know what it is but I need help. I need sleep. She's not complaining that anything bothers her, nothing hurts, she doesn't appear to be getting her two-year molars. The "we need to get this under control before we have a newborn" part of me wants to just shut the baby monitor off and just let her "cry"-it-out but she usually wakes up once a night to go potty. I'd feel like the worst mom ever if she had to go and I didn't hear her and she was forced to go in her Pull-Up even though she did the right thing and tried to tell me. But beyond that, there is no reason for her to be waking up. Some nights I go in and she is all wound up, ready for the day and takes sometimes HOURS to go back to sleep, other times I go in there, tell her to go back to sleep/it's not time to wake up and she does only to wake up again an hour or two later. I've been turning the monitor off if she's already gone potty and/or I know she's just being ridiculous.
Please don't say this is my body's way of preparing me for a newborn. I am fine with waking up to tend to a baby, there is a reason they are awake and that is totally acceptable in my book. A two-and-a-half-year-old? No reason for it. It's exhausting. I need sleep. Period. Oh and on top of it she's already pushed her bed-time back to 9 pm and is waking up around 7 where before she was a solid 8-8 sleeper. Eff.
What gives? Any and all suggestions welcome.
***
Second thing on my agenda is a tip for you, my readers. I have talked about my love for GroopDealz before, heck I've even promoted for them and done giveaways with them. Well the love ends here. I purchased a insulated, monogrammed tumbler for Kendall's Easter basket back on February 17th. As of today I have still yet to receive it.
I've contacted GroopDealz 3 times, the vendor 3 times and done multiple social media shout outs {which is totally not my style but it was a last-ditch effort to get a reaction from them} and still have yet to get a response, refund or my product. I tried filing a dispute with PayPal yesterday but apparently it's not eligible and I need to "contact the company directly". Ha!
I'm at a loss. I don't know what else to do besides warn all my readers to not purchase anything from them. I hate to do something so bold, so publicly but I truly value good customer service {as I've worked in the industry for most of my working years} and this is completely unacceptable. It also sucks because they do have really cute things and even better prices but if this is how it's going to be I will do my bank account a favor and stop indulging in their "deals".
I don't know what has happened to my great sleeping child but for the past few weeks she's regressed back to her infant nights. I don't know what it is but I need help. I need sleep. She's not complaining that anything bothers her, nothing hurts, she doesn't appear to be getting her two-year molars. The "we need to get this under control before we have a newborn" part of me wants to just shut the baby monitor off and just let her "cry"-it-out but she usually wakes up once a night to go potty. I'd feel like the worst mom ever if she had to go and I didn't hear her and she was forced to go in her Pull-Up even though she did the right thing and tried to tell me. But beyond that, there is no reason for her to be waking up. Some nights I go in and she is all wound up, ready for the day and takes sometimes HOURS to go back to sleep, other times I go in there, tell her to go back to sleep/it's not time to wake up and she does only to wake up again an hour or two later. I've been turning the monitor off if she's already gone potty and/or I know she's just being ridiculous.
Please don't say this is my body's way of preparing me for a newborn. I am fine with waking up to tend to a baby, there is a reason they are awake and that is totally acceptable in my book. A two-and-a-half-year-old? No reason for it. It's exhausting. I need sleep. Period. Oh and on top of it she's already pushed her bed-time back to 9 pm and is waking up around 7 where before she was a solid 8-8 sleeper. Eff.
What gives? Any and all suggestions welcome.
***
Second thing on my agenda is a tip for you, my readers. I have talked about my love for GroopDealz before, heck I've even promoted for them and done giveaways with them. Well the love ends here. I purchased a insulated, monogrammed tumbler for Kendall's Easter basket back on February 17th. As of today I have still yet to receive it.
I've contacted GroopDealz 3 times, the vendor 3 times and done multiple social media shout outs {which is totally not my style but it was a last-ditch effort to get a reaction from them} and still have yet to get a response, refund or my product. I tried filing a dispute with PayPal yesterday but apparently it's not eligible and I need to "contact the company directly". Ha!
I'm at a loss. I don't know what else to do besides warn all my readers to not purchase anything from them. I hate to do something so bold, so publicly but I truly value good customer service {as I've worked in the industry for most of my working years} and this is completely unacceptable. It also sucks because they do have really cute things and even better prices but if this is how it's going to be I will do my bank account a favor and stop indulging in their "deals".
April 5, 2013
Thumbs Up, Thumbs Down
Thumbs Up: The forecast looks warm for the next week.
Thumbs Down: Of course there's lots of rain.
Thumbs Up: I made myself a hot breakfast today.
Thumbs Down: I had to get up 187,965,288 times while eating said breakfast because a certain toddler needed a napkin, her milk, a vitamin, to go potty, etc.
Thumbs Up: James Weston has been moving more and more lately, I love it.
Thumbs Down: Jimmy still can't feel him.
Thumbs Up: IT'S FRIDAY!
Thumbs Down: My husband is working all weekend.
Thumbs Up: Instead of buying 3 books on my reading list I got them all, free, from the library.
Thumbs Down: I'm on a waiting list for all three.
Thumbs Up: Kendall is a talking machine and just grabbed my face and stroked it saying, "you're so precious".
Thumbs Down: She also says things like "this is ridicluss".
Thumbs Up: I got the new "scentless" Jergen's Natural Glow and love it.
Thumbs Down: It's not scentless.
Thumbs Up: Starbucks soy, no water Chai tea lattes.
Thumbs Down: I've turned my toddler into a Starbucks snob and now she has to get something every time we go too.
Thumbs Up: I didn't get weighed at my 20 week appointment this week.
Thumbs Down: I just weighed myself.
Thumbs Up: Kendall got to fly a kite for the first time this week and LOVED every minute.
Thumbs Down: Jimmy then got said kite stuck in a tree.
Thumbs Up: Zarbee's All-Natural Children's Nighttime Cough Syrup.
Thumbs Down: Kendall has a yucky cough and runny nose just in time for the nice weather.
Thumbs Up: I love the new cast on The Voice. I think they all jive so well.
Thumbs Down: We are still only on the first episode.
Thumbs Up: Only 2 more weeks of Jimmy's crappy work schedule.
Thumbs Down: Still 2 more weeks of Jimmy's crappy work schedule.
Thumbs Up: Super Why allows me to cook breakfast and sometimes shower in peace.
Thumbs Down: I miss watching Live With Kelly & Michael.
Hope you have a great weekend!
Thumbs Down: Of course there's lots of rain.
Thumbs Up: I made myself a hot breakfast today.
Thumbs Down: I had to get up 187,965,288 times while eating said breakfast because a certain toddler needed a napkin, her milk, a vitamin, to go potty, etc.
Thumbs Up: James Weston has been moving more and more lately, I love it.
Thumbs Down: Jimmy still can't feel him.
Thumbs Up: IT'S FRIDAY!
Thumbs Down: My husband is working all weekend.
Thumbs Up: Instead of buying 3 books on my reading list I got them all, free, from the library.
Thumbs Down: I'm on a waiting list for all three.
Thumbs Up: Kendall is a talking machine and just grabbed my face and stroked it saying, "you're so precious".
Thumbs Down: She also says things like "this is ridicluss".
Thumbs Up: I got the new "scentless" Jergen's Natural Glow and love it.
Thumbs Down: It's not scentless.
Thumbs Up: Starbucks soy, no water Chai tea lattes.
Thumbs Down: I've turned my toddler into a Starbucks snob and now she has to get something every time we go too.
Thumbs Up: I didn't get weighed at my 20 week appointment this week.
Thumbs Down: I just weighed myself.
Thumbs Up: Kendall got to fly a kite for the first time this week and LOVED every minute.
Thumbs Down: Jimmy then got said kite stuck in a tree.
Thumbs Up: Zarbee's All-Natural Children's Nighttime Cough Syrup.
Thumbs Down: Kendall has a yucky cough and runny nose just in time for the nice weather.
Thumbs Up: I love the new cast on The Voice. I think they all jive so well.
Thumbs Down: We are still only on the first episode.
Thumbs Up: Only 2 more weeks of Jimmy's crappy work schedule.
Thumbs Down: Still 2 more weeks of Jimmy's crappy work schedule.
Thumbs Up: Super Why allows me to cook breakfast and sometimes shower in peace.
Thumbs Down: I miss watching Live With Kelly & Michael.
Hope you have a great weekend!
April 4, 2013
Thursday Randoms
Have you noticed that posting has been sparse, at best, this week? I wish there were a good reason, like we've been enjoying the spring weather but we all know it's still cold so that's not true. I haven't been doing awesome things like starting on our baby nursery. Heck I'm not even caught up on my DVR. Truth be told, we're just living life and that is boring to blog about.
***
I have officially picked a preschool for Kendall to attend and I'm really excited. I kinda wish she was going to be going now. I am ready. School will start just a few weeks after James Weston is due so, to me, this will be perfect timing. I'm hoping she sees it as her special big girl activity, something that only she can do, and really loves it. I really hope she doesn't feel like "mommy had a new baby and now wants to get rid of me". When I ask her about school she says, "I go when I'm older, when I'm three" so...she's right on. We'll see what happens come September.
***
Have you heard? Spring is coming next week, hopefully. Our forecast looks like hi 60s next week and I cannot wait! I swear the warm weather is what I need to get myself motivated to get up and out of the house. I am so looking forward to going to the zoo, park, heck even just playing in our backyard. The weather better not trick us and dip back down after this spring-like week, I might cry.
***
My friend Lindsey is having a fundraiser to raise money and awareness about bone marrow transplants. Her daughter and son have both been born with a bone marrow disease requiring them both to undergo many surgeries and literally fight for their little lives. The proceeds from this event will go to the Be The Match foundation in the name of her son, Will.
***
I had my 20 week ultrasound and James Weston was a booger. He is spine up and, basically, would not move. We were in the ultrasound room for 45 minutes trying to get all of the measurements she needed but it just wasn't happening, internal ultrasound and all. Stubborn boy! With that being said, he looks "perfect" and, yes he's still a he.
***
I think I found the next book I want to read, Drinking and Tweeting by Brandi Glanville. I need something light and easy and I think this will do the trick. I want to hate her, I feel like I should, but I can't. I think that she gets a bad rap a lot of the times but in reality she's not that awful. After watching the final two episodes of RHBH this week I really started to take a liking to her, especially after the crap Faye pulled at Lisa's party. OK I need to shut up because I'm starting to sound like a psycho. Basically, I want to read her book, if you read it, did you like it?
***
I have become obsessed with those DIY, self-serve, frozen yogurt places. We don't have any close to home until this weekend. We have one opening up within walking distance of my house and I cannot wait! I think KP and I might spend every summer night outside on the picnic tables. The last time I went to one, Menchie's, my yogurt was almost $7, a bit ridiculous but whatever. I love it.
***
I have officially picked a preschool for Kendall to attend and I'm really excited. I kinda wish she was going to be going now. I am ready. School will start just a few weeks after James Weston is due so, to me, this will be perfect timing. I'm hoping she sees it as her special big girl activity, something that only she can do, and really loves it. I really hope she doesn't feel like "mommy had a new baby and now wants to get rid of me". When I ask her about school she says, "I go when I'm older, when I'm three" so...she's right on. We'll see what happens come September.
***
Have you heard? Spring is coming next week, hopefully. Our forecast looks like hi 60s next week and I cannot wait! I swear the warm weather is what I need to get myself motivated to get up and out of the house. I am so looking forward to going to the zoo, park, heck even just playing in our backyard. The weather better not trick us and dip back down after this spring-like week, I might cry.
***
My friend Lindsey is having a fundraiser to raise money and awareness about bone marrow transplants. Her daughter and son have both been born with a bone marrow disease requiring them both to undergo many surgeries and literally fight for their little lives. The proceeds from this event will go to the Be The Match foundation in the name of her son, Will.
***
I had my 20 week ultrasound and James Weston was a booger. He is spine up and, basically, would not move. We were in the ultrasound room for 45 minutes trying to get all of the measurements she needed but it just wasn't happening, internal ultrasound and all. Stubborn boy! With that being said, he looks "perfect" and, yes he's still a he.
***
I think I found the next book I want to read, Drinking and Tweeting by Brandi Glanville. I need something light and easy and I think this will do the trick. I want to hate her, I feel like I should, but I can't. I think that she gets a bad rap a lot of the times but in reality she's not that awful. After watching the final two episodes of RHBH this week I really started to take a liking to her, especially after the crap Faye pulled at Lisa's party. OK I need to shut up because I'm starting to sound like a psycho. Basically, I want to read her book, if you read it, did you like it?
***
I have become obsessed with those DIY, self-serve, frozen yogurt places. We don't have any close to home until this weekend. We have one opening up within walking distance of my house and I cannot wait! I think KP and I might spend every summer night outside on the picnic tables. The last time I went to one, Menchie's, my yogurt was almost $7, a bit ridiculous but whatever. I love it.
March 11, 2013
Currently...
Currently I am...
Reading: Gone Girl. I'm only about quarter of the way through it but I love the way it's written. I love the way "Amy" talks and I think she and I would be friends. I'm so curious to find out what happens and everyone has told me, "I hated the ending" so that makes me even more eager. I hear Reese Witherspoon plays Amy in the soon-to-be-movie version and so far, that's a perfect match.
Listening To: The Band Perry, Better Dig Two. I don't know why I just love this dark, funny song. Jimmy thinks it's weird, I think it's a love song. Plus I kinda think The Band Perry can do no wrong.
Watching: Pretty Little Liars. My mom told me about this show when it first came on but for some reason it took every blogger in America to convince me that I need to jump on this bandwagon. I am about halfway through season 2 and while I'm still hooked I'm sort of losing interest. Like, can we find out who "A" is already? It's driving me batty but keeps me watching at the same time.
Melting Over: My big girl waking up in her new big girl bed. We finally made the transition this weekend and I caught her waking up for the first time on video. I think she loved it and I think I love her a little more.
Annoyed By: My stupid stuffy nose. I swear this never happened when I was pregnant with Kendall and it's like payback times two. Seriously. My nose whistles when I lay down which only keeps me from sleeping which is the last thing I need right now. My pregnancy apps say it's not going away anytime soon either. Awesomesauce.
Wearing: My colored maternity skinnies from Gap. I have them in mint and purple {or neon violet} and if I could I'd wear them every day. They're the softest skinny jeans I've ever owned and possibly the most comfortable maternity jeans I've ever wore. I love that they make me stylish even when I'm feeling like a blimp.
Shopping For: Curtains for our dining area. We have a very open kitchen/living room/dining room area so I'm in the process of making that area flow better. If you know what I mean. We have bamboo roller shades on the window right now {they came with the house} and while I kind of have a love/hate relationship with them I feel like the window needs some layering in the form of these pretties.
Writing: Our bedroom makeover post. I've been so excited about our new makeover and we've been enjoying our new living space {not new but we never spent any time in there because we hated it} and I need to share it with you! I'm terrible at actually breaking out a real camera but I promise, it's coming this week.
Excited About: Warmer weather. This weekend gave me hope that spring is coming. We played outside, enjoyed some sunshine on our faces, ate ice cream, cracked the windows {just a bit} while we were driving, it was glorious.
Obsessed With: GroopDealz and Ebates. Are you signed up with GroopDealz yet? They have the cutest, perfect for gift-giving {or keeping for yourself} things and CHEAP. I have gotten a few necklaces and a cute monogrammed tumbler for KP recently and barely broke the bank. The deals change daily so you have to be quick but I am positive you'll find something you {or someone you know} love. And, I've said it before but I'll say it again, if you aren't shopping with Ebates, you're dumb. They make it easy to earn money when you're shopping for things you'd already buy. Last quarter my Big Fat Check was almost $900, I'm not kidding.
Laughing At: Star Magazine reported that Kim Kardashian {who is due around the same time as me} has already gained 65+ lbs this pregnancy. Now I find that hard to believe BUT if it is true, it makes my 11 lb weight gain seem A-OK and makes me feel good about myself. Sorry, Kim.
January 24, 2013
Thoughts for Thursday
I haven't done a random, here's what's on my mind post in a while so here you go.
***
So I'm annoyed. I blame it on the case of S.A.D. that I swear I get every year. I hate the cold. I hate the snow. I hate winter. I thought I'd be all happy-go-lucky and enjoy it this year but that's not the case. In fact, I think I'm more annoyed than ever. You see, we heat our house {mainly} with a wood burning fireplace insert. Sure it's awesome, saves us a ton of money on propane to heat the house and who doesn't love cozy-ing up to next to a roaring fire? Me. I am over it. I'm tired of tramping outside in the subzero temperatures to bring more wood in. I'm sick of all the dust that damn thing creates. Seriously I cannot keep our house clean with this thing. I hate that even though we have a humidifier our house is always dry. I hate it all. I hate winter, that will never change apparently.
***
***
Is blogging dying? I swear if I read one more "I'm taking a break" or "I took a break and didn't care" post I might scream. I mean, I get it. We all have periods of writers block, it happens. But so just take a break, blog when you feel like it, no pressure. It's not that serious. I feel like so many people get so caught up in "I have to post EVERY day" that they lose sight of why they started blogging in the first place. Blog when/if you want and don't when you don't. Easy peasy. No need to be all dramatic about it. I still happen to love blogging. I love the friends I have made and pretty much the whole community. Of course there are exceptions but, for the most part, blogging still rocks my socks.
***
Am I the only one with a toddler that refuses 3.5 seconds of independent play? I mean seriously! I will set out all of her toys thinking, "OK I can finally go unload the dishwasher in peace" and then 2 seconds later she's {literally} hanging on my leg. What gives? I know I should cherish this time that she wants to spend with me and soak it up because in about 12 years she won't want anything to do with me but HOLY COW, mama needs some space sometimes.
***
Can we talk about Private Practice for a minute? Ummm...why did I not know it was ending, for good? I was watching last weeks episode, business as usual and then BAM I see "on next weeks SERIES finale" and instantly started crying. WTF? I had NO IDEA it was ending, whatsoever. I still haven't watched the finale because that makes it real and I am not ready for it to be over.
***
Speaking of TV. I started Pretty Little Liars, which I told you yesterday and holy teenage goodness. I have watched 11 episodes in the past 2.5 days and have no plans of slowing down. First of all, Aria is adorable. Love her. She's gorgeous. I want to be her when I die and come back as a teenager. And Mr. Fitz, {whistles} woohoo. My mom has been telling me for months that I need to jump on this teenie-bopper train but I never listened. Sorry mom.
***
So our bedroom furniture is in! Say what?! We are finally going to have a master bedroom for grown ups to live in! We still need curtains and some decoration stuff but the furniture alone is going to be a HUGE improvement. I can't wait to reveal the before and afters. You will DIE when you see what I'm working with. It's pathetic, really. You can guess what we'll be doing all weekend.
So yeah, that's where I'm at today.
November 30, 2012
At 9 a.m.
Is it just me or does 9 a.m. feel so much different in the winter?
Over the summer we were outside and filling up the water table and the baby pool by nine, some days. By nine I was ready to go to the pool, sunscreen applied and pool bag packed only to find out the pool doesn't even open till 10! At 9 a.m. I felt as if half of the day was already over. Making it to story time {at 10 a.m.}each week was a breeze.
Now? Well I'm lucky to have breakfast ready by nine. Showers usually don't happen until the afternoon because omgidon'twanttogetoutofmywarmbedandgetintheshower! There is definitely no going outside to play bright and early. And some weeks I just don't feel like going to story time.
It could also be that my child sleeps in much later now too.
And that it's too freakin' cold to do anything outside because 1. I hate wearing coats and 2. I hate the cold.
There's just something about the winter months that make everyone and everything seem to slow down. It's really quite refreshing after the busyness that is summer cookouts, pool parties, graduations, weddings, pool days, and more cookouts. I almost welcomed the calm that comes with the cooler months this year.
Instead of planning the days activities, determined to make the most of a bright! sunny! warm! day, we snuggle up on the couch in front of a warm fire. We drink hot chocolate before we eat breakfast and it's OK. We have more PJ days and KP loves PJ day {girlfriend hates to get dressed unless it's to put on a princess dress or tutu}.
9 a.m. seems easier these days. If we don't feel like leaving the house for the day {or two or three} we don't and there's no guilt because we are missing out on great weather. No, instead it's cozy and comfy and warm and makes me feel all of those things on the inside too.
I've always been a self proclaimed "I hate winter-er" but this year I'm finding a new respect for it. Perhaps it's because I'm older and lazier but I like to think it's because I can appreciate the calm now. I appreciate those rare moments when The Toddler is all quiet and relaxed and snuggly and I don't dare interrupt that.
I know in a few months when there is snow on the ground and we can't go anywhere due to slushy roads I'll be back to my same old "I hate winter!" mantra. So for now, I'm enjoying the cold mornings and the fact that 9 a.m. is so simple and sweet and snuggly and warm and quiet and easy.
Happy Friday, friends. Have a great weekend.
9 a.m. seems easier these days. If we don't feel like leaving the house for the day {or two or three} we don't and there's no guilt because we are missing out on great weather. No, instead it's cozy and comfy and warm and makes me feel all of those things on the inside too.
I've always been a self proclaimed "I hate winter-er" but this year I'm finding a new respect for it. Perhaps it's because I'm older and lazier but I like to think it's because I can appreciate the calm now. I appreciate those rare moments when The Toddler is all quiet and relaxed and snuggly and I don't dare interrupt that.
I know in a few months when there is snow on the ground and we can't go anywhere due to slushy roads I'll be back to my same old "I hate winter!" mantra. So for now, I'm enjoying the cold mornings and the fact that 9 a.m. is so simple and sweet and snuggly and warm and quiet and easy.
Happy Friday, friends. Have a great weekend.
September 27, 2012
Then vs Now
Then: I wouldn't have left the house without a touch of lip gloss.
Now: I am lucky if I shower before I hit up Target. Baseball hat, anyone?
Then: I couldn't finish a cup of coffee, ever.
Now: It is my lifeline. Some days even require afternoon coffee.
Then: I couldn't imagine life without dogs.
Now: I look forward to the day.
Then: I thought for sure I only wanted one child, ever.
Now: I can't wait to see those two pink lines again.
Then: I watched Saved by the Bell at 6 am, while getting ready for school.
Now: I watch Saved by the Bell at noon while my child naps.
Then: I thought skinny jeans with flats looked ridiculous and made your feet look huge.
Now: It's my fall wardrobe staple.
Then: I'd never go to Target without finding at least something in the clothing department.
Now: I didn't even look in it's direction yesterday.
Then: I'd wake up at 4:45 to hit the gym by 5.
Now: I'm lucky to walk on the treadmill 3 days a week.
Then: I'd chat for hours upon hours on the phone.
Now: Text me, please. Or HeyTell, yes, HeyTell.
Then: I always paid in cash, always.
Now: I never have cash on me. Drives Jimmy batty.
Then: I hated being alone.
Now: I cherish each silent moment with myself.
Then: I'd only read chick-lit {Shopaholic, Bergdorf Blondes, etc}.
Now: Snozefest. I need something with more substance.
Then: I'd pay $145 for designer jeans.
Now: I cringe if I pay more than $30 for Old Navy jeans.
Then: I'd wear printed jeans because I was in 5th grade.
Now: I wouldn't be caught dead in them. No matter who tells me they're "in".
Then: I'd wear Uggs as a fashion statement.
Now: I wear them out of necessity.
Then: I'd turn up my nose to the mention of venison.
Now: It's all I cook with {except chicken, of course}.
Then: I'd look for any reason to go shopping.
Now: I do 90% of my shopping online {hello Ebates!}.
Then: I could barely write a 2 page paper.
Now: I write daily and love it.
Then: I hated beer, with a passion.
Now: I find it quite tasty, especially fall beers.
Then: I was obsessed with UsWeekly, People, Life & Style, etc.
Now: I can barely get through an issue of Glamour once a month.
Then: I wanted my own reality show.
Now: I'll stick to watching them.
Funny, I was making this list thinking, "eh I won't be able to come up with much because I'm still the same person I was 10 years ago". And while that's true, for the most part, a lot of me has changed. Most of it for the better {who really needs $150 jeans?}. But some of them made me realize that I am such a grown-up now. Gone are the days of cashing my paycheck and spending it on the latest trends. Now I get excited when I find a really great deal on toys online. I no longer dread being alone {yay!} but I'd prefer a brief text conversation over a drawn out phone call. I realize that while I've come a long way from that boy-haircut sporting, wide leg pants wearing, girly girl hidden in a tomboy's clothes, deep down in my heart I am still the same baby loving, gossip magazine reading, friendship cherish-er, ice-cream lover I've always been. Some days I hate being a grown up but other days it's pretty awesome.
Now: I am lucky if I shower before I hit up Target. Baseball hat, anyone?
Then: I couldn't finish a cup of coffee, ever.
Now: It is my lifeline. Some days even require afternoon coffee.
Then: I couldn't imagine life without dogs.
Now: I look forward to the day.
Then: I thought for sure I only wanted one child, ever.
Now: I can't wait to see those two pink lines again.
Then: I watched Saved by the Bell at 6 am, while getting ready for school.
Now: I watch Saved by the Bell at noon while my child naps.
Then: I thought skinny jeans with flats looked ridiculous and made your feet look huge.
Now: It's my fall wardrobe staple.
Then: I'd never go to Target without finding at least something in the clothing department.
Now: I didn't even look in it's direction yesterday.
Then: I'd wake up at 4:45 to hit the gym by 5.
Now: I'm lucky to walk on the treadmill 3 days a week.
Then: I'd chat for hours upon hours on the phone.
Now: Text me, please. Or HeyTell, yes, HeyTell.
Then: I always paid in cash, always.
Now: I never have cash on me. Drives Jimmy batty.
Then: I hated being alone.
Now: I cherish each silent moment with myself.
Then: I'd only read chick-lit {Shopaholic, Bergdorf Blondes, etc}.
Now: Snozefest. I need something with more substance.
Then: I'd pay $145 for designer jeans.
Now: I cringe if I pay more than $30 for Old Navy jeans.
Then: I'd wear printed jeans because I was in 5th grade.
Now: I wouldn't be caught dead in them. No matter who tells me they're "in".
Then: I'd wear Uggs as a fashion statement.
Now: I wear them out of necessity.
Then: I'd turn up my nose to the mention of venison.
Now: It's all I cook with {except chicken, of course}.
Then: I'd look for any reason to go shopping.
Now: I do 90% of my shopping online {hello Ebates!}.
Then: I could barely write a 2 page paper.
Now: I write daily and love it.
Then: I hated beer, with a passion.
Now: I find it quite tasty, especially fall beers.
Then: I was obsessed with UsWeekly, People, Life & Style, etc.
Now: I can barely get through an issue of Glamour once a month.
Then: I wanted my own reality show.
Now: I'll stick to watching them.
Funny, I was making this list thinking, "eh I won't be able to come up with much because I'm still the same person I was 10 years ago". And while that's true, for the most part, a lot of me has changed. Most of it for the better {who really needs $150 jeans?}. But some of them made me realize that I am such a grown-up now. Gone are the days of cashing my paycheck and spending it on the latest trends. Now I get excited when I find a really great deal on toys online. I no longer dread being alone {yay!} but I'd prefer a brief text conversation over a drawn out phone call. I realize that while I've come a long way from that boy-haircut sporting, wide leg pants wearing, girly girl hidden in a tomboy's clothes, deep down in my heart I am still the same baby loving, gossip magazine reading, friendship cherish-er, ice-cream lover I've always been. Some days I hate being a grown up but other days it's pretty awesome.
September 17, 2012
An Apology and Update of Sorts
First things first, I'm sorry for the way I left things last week. I hate ending my blog week on a sour note. Truth be told, I was in a sour mood pretty much the rest of the week, into the weekend, it's not been pleasant around here. But stepping back and taking care of things at home is most important and that's what I've been doing. I needed a few days of no emails, no updating Facebook and/or Twitter, no reading blog comments, just to unplug. It's definitely helped my stress level, a little. But I love this blog, I love this community, so I couldn't stay away too long. So here's an update of sorts.
-Chanel is doing better. She had her uterus removed and the vet told me that it was huge. OK, gross. He said it was so "infected" that she probably lost weight just by removing it. Poor girl. Saturday I started to get worried about her because she hadn't eaten much or drank anything since being home and, good Lord, that's all I needed was a dehydrated, malnourished dog. So Saturday morning I loaded her and Kendall into the car and back to the vet we went. Do you know how hard it is to do that alone when the toddler wants to run away, into traffic and your dog isn't allowed jumping into the car by herself? It's hard. Really hard. And stressful. Luckily she checked out just fine and came home with a couple of new meds and a clean shaven behind. I can honestly tell she's feeling better today and has even managed to get some food and water in her. Looks like she's on the mend, I hope.
-There will be no Challenge Your Closet today. Maybe not even this week. We'll see. With all that's gone on this week I didn't make into the shower a few days, let alone get all dolled up in something blog worthy. I could share "how to go in public without taking a shower and not completely scaring strangers" but that wouldn't help anyone.
-We found a church, after only leaving here for 2.5 years {::insert eye roll::}. We're pathetic. Jimmy had plans already set in stone this Sunday so we didn't get to go this week {he didn't want me and Kendall going for the first time without him}but next week we'll be there. I cannot wait. I've been feeling the need for this in my life and I'm happy with our decision. The church looks like it will be perfect for us and has all the "things" we were looking for so here's hoping.
-I wanted to take a minute and address why I have sponsors. Back when I started blogging {almost 4 years ago} there were no such thing as sponsors {that I know of}. No way to help the newbies get exposure, no partnership to help promote your blog/business. Now there is and if I can help get the word out about someone else I'm happy to do it. I do not take my job on this blog lightly and truly hope that all who have sponsored me {past and current} can attest to that. Sure it makes me a little money on the side and for that I'm truly grateful. There have been months where that extra has put gas in my car or saved our checking from being overdrawn. So thank you. Truly.
-Have I mentioned how wonderful my mother-in-law is? She's offered to keep Kendall for me a few hours each week so that I can have some me time. Last week we skipped out because her dog had puppies but this week she's going to keep her so that I can go get my hair cut, finally. I cannot express my gratitude for this woman. I know I will be soaking up each and every minute of my head/neck/back massage while I'm at the salon on Thursday.
-I want to talk about our TTC journey with Baby Dew #2 but I feel like I can't. I know there are so many women out there that have trouble TTC and that if I post about being disappointed that this month wasn't our month I look like I'm being greedy. Truth is we've only really been trying for one month and that's nothing compared to people who have been trying for years. But it's still disappointing and I'm allowed to be bummed. So we'll see where that goes.
-Thanks for your patience while I go through this rough spot in life. I'm hoping that that is all this is and that soon, very soon, we'll be on the upswing again. I promise not all posts will be as depressing/boring/lame as the past few have been.
-Chanel is doing better. She had her uterus removed and the vet told me that it was huge. OK, gross. He said it was so "infected" that she probably lost weight just by removing it. Poor girl. Saturday I started to get worried about her because she hadn't eaten much or drank anything since being home and, good Lord, that's all I needed was a dehydrated, malnourished dog. So Saturday morning I loaded her and Kendall into the car and back to the vet we went. Do you know how hard it is to do that alone when the toddler wants to run away, into traffic and your dog isn't allowed jumping into the car by herself? It's hard. Really hard. And stressful. Luckily she checked out just fine and came home with a couple of new meds and a clean shaven behind. I can honestly tell she's feeling better today and has even managed to get some food and water in her. Looks like she's on the mend, I hope.
-There will be no Challenge Your Closet today. Maybe not even this week. We'll see. With all that's gone on this week I didn't make into the shower a few days, let alone get all dolled up in something blog worthy. I could share "how to go in public without taking a shower and not completely scaring strangers" but that wouldn't help anyone.
-We found a church, after only leaving here for 2.5 years {::insert eye roll::}. We're pathetic. Jimmy had plans already set in stone this Sunday so we didn't get to go this week {he didn't want me and Kendall going for the first time without him}but next week we'll be there. I cannot wait. I've been feeling the need for this in my life and I'm happy with our decision. The church looks like it will be perfect for us and has all the "things" we were looking for so here's hoping.
-I wanted to take a minute and address why I have sponsors. Back when I started blogging {almost 4 years ago} there were no such thing as sponsors {that I know of}. No way to help the newbies get exposure, no partnership to help promote your blog/business. Now there is and if I can help get the word out about someone else I'm happy to do it. I do not take my job on this blog lightly and truly hope that all who have sponsored me {past and current} can attest to that. Sure it makes me a little money on the side and for that I'm truly grateful. There have been months where that extra has put gas in my car or saved our checking from being overdrawn. So thank you. Truly.
-Have I mentioned how wonderful my mother-in-law is? She's offered to keep Kendall for me a few hours each week so that I can have some me time. Last week we skipped out because her dog had puppies but this week she's going to keep her so that I can go get my hair cut, finally. I cannot express my gratitude for this woman. I know I will be soaking up each and every minute of my head/neck/back massage while I'm at the salon on Thursday.
-I want to talk about our TTC journey with Baby Dew #2 but I feel like I can't. I know there are so many women out there that have trouble TTC and that if I post about being disappointed that this month wasn't our month I look like I'm being greedy. Truth is we've only really been trying for one month and that's nothing compared to people who have been trying for years. But it's still disappointing and I'm allowed to be bummed. So we'll see where that goes.
-Thanks for your patience while I go through this rough spot in life. I'm hoping that that is all this is and that soon, very soon, we'll be on the upswing again. I promise not all posts will be as depressing/boring/lame as the past few have been.
September 11, 2012
Tuesday, Toddler, Tantrum, Toilet Training {and other words that start with "T"}
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In other "T" news, THANK YOU to Jenn at Munchkin Land Designs for my new blog makeover. Isn't it the cutest? I mean, really? Isn't it? Jenn was so easy to work with and truly brought my vision to life!
July 27, 2012
The Real Me
I've seen this floating around on lots of blogs lately and thought I'd give it a go, you know since I don't have anything else for today. So here goes nothing.
If you really knew me...
- You'd know I rub my tongue across the back of my teeth when I'm trying to keep myself from crying. I don't know why but it helps, I swear. I used to yawn to prevent the waterworks but an old boyfriend caught on to that and called me out.
- You'd know that history, geography, science and math are not my strong points. There's a story behind all this that only the people that really know me know.
- You'd know that I got arrested when I was 15 for underage drinking in a public park. That I was on house arrest for 3 months, had to attend 8 AA meetings and serve community service. Yep.
- You'd know I have two middle names and two last names. Well now that I'm married I only have one last name but until then I had two, legally.
- You'd know that I've had the same BFF since kindergarten. We are like sisters and I cherish that friendship as much as my marriage.
- You'd know I've never played Monopoly and don't know any card games besides Go Fish, Solitaire, and Skip-Bo.
- You'd know I fall asleep any time I go to the movie theater. This happened before I became a mom too so I can't even blame it on that.
- You'd know I'm a lot less funny in person than I am on this, here blog. Lame is, in fact, a better word.
- You'd know my favorite movies growing up were Dirty Dancing and Three Men and a Baby.
- You'd know that I am deaf in my right ear and have to wear ear plugs to take a shower. I have a hole in my left eardrum now so we'll see where that goes.
- You'd know that my first car was a yellow VW Beetle.
- You'd know that I HATE those awful emails where you stare at something for a minute and then BAM something scary jumps out. But I love scary movies.
- You'd know that I can fold my tongue into the shape of a W.
- You'd know that I am the worlds worst singer but I love to belt out a good tune at the top of my lungs.
- You'd know that I'd never drive a mini-van. Ever. I don't care how many kids I have.
- You'd know that if I won a trip to Japan or China I'd straight give it away. Wouldn't even make someone pay me for it. Hell I might pay them to take it.
- You'd know that I call my dad's mom Grandma Bella, she calls me Tootsie-Bella, Kendall calls her GG Bella.
How many of those did you know?
July 17, 2012
Perception
I have a feeling this post is going to be hard to follow and a little all over the place but here goes.
Do you ever find yourself looking at someone in public, like looking at them, and wondering what they are like or, you know, judging? I do, guilty as charged. But it's not necessarily a bad thing, here's why.
Like sometimes it's at story time and a toddler mom comes in suddenly sporting a baby belly and I'm all, "wonder if that was planned" or "wonder if she feels good because she looks adorable!". Weird stuff like that. Sometimes Jimmy and I will be out to dinner and we'll see another couple and they look awkward and new and we make up a whole story about how this HAS to be the first date because look how they're sitting. See, Jimmy's weird too.
Please tell me we aren't the only ones who do this.
Then sometimes I wonder, what do people think of when they see me?
I mean do I look like I'm stressed because I am trying to push a stroller while holding the door for myself, because God forbid anyone be kind and hold it open for me? Do I look like I'm too relaxed {read: bad mom} because I don't care that my toddler is throwing a tantrum in the middle of Target's dollar bins? Do I look like a hot mess or cute in my too short, hot pink shorts?
I think its human nature to "judge" and, again, this is not necessarily in a bad way. I "judge" a girls outfit because I think she looks damn cute. But I feel like I'm always looking, wondering, "judging".
Then I think about how far off I could be, probably am, when it comes to these poor people. I see the cute lady with a baby bump and think how cute her outfit is, how tiny her bump is considering she's due any minute, but she probably feels hot, sweaty, miserable, and hugenormous. The mom of two that's looking so put together, making being a mom of two under two look so effortless, probably struggled to get out the door in one piece this morning.
I guess the point is, we never "know" what's really going on with these people but we think we do. I try not to care what people think {typically} but I know that isn't always easy.
I do get embarrassed when I just want to look for a book in the library but Kendall thinks that means it's time to run up and down the aisle. I mean I let her do it because it's easier and faster {believe it or not} but I'm sure people think I'm a big ball of mom failure. Then I think that they are probably either "judging" me because 1. they aren't a parent and haven't had to experience The Toddler yet but one day, one day, they will know what it's like or 2. they've been there done that and are looking at me with that "I know how you feel" look.
Please tell me I'm not weird! Do you ever find yourself making up stories for people you see out in public? Also known as people watching. Do you wonder what people think when they see you? Sometimes?
July 12, 2012
Thoughts on Thursday
I kinda like life without cable. OK limited cable. We have basic and a few extra channels {Style, TLC & MTV2} so basically there is nothing on TV, ever. I mean if it's not on Bravo! I don't watch it so, yeah, I"m not watching much of anything these days and it's kinda nice. Also Big Brother starts today and OMG am I excited! Thank God my downgraded service lets me keep the DVR.
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I sent out Kendall's birthday invitations yesterday. I cannot believe my baby girl is going to be two-years-old! Didn't I just plan her 1st birthday? I mean, seriously? How does this happen? Although I'm so excited for her party, she's going to freak when she sees all the Doe-rah. EEK! So excited.
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Notice how I haven't done another link up for the 30 day/300 ab challenge? Well that's because I've been a slacker. I've still been doing it, just not religiously like before, and it definitely shows. I'm embarrassed. I know a lot of girls have just started and are seeing great results already and now they are motivating me. So maybe we'll have a link up soon. Maybe.
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Speaking of fitness, we have The Color Run in two weeks. I was so super pumped when we signed up, then I got kinda blah about it, but now that I'm starting to see the pics from other cities I'm getting pumped again. I know I won't be able to run the entire time, especially if this heat keeps up, but I know it will be a good time and I'll be with good people. What more could you want?!
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I need a new book to read. This year I've already read more books than the previous 2 years combined so I'm on a streak and I want to keep going. I've read Bloom and the 50 Shades trilogy so try something else. I don't do Nicholas Sparks books so don't even go there. Oh and if you even mention Hunger Games, I'll cut you. I hated Twilight and Harry Potter was OK for one book, if that gives you any idea where I'm going with this. I thought about reading Room but fear that it's going to be too much for my mom heart to handle. Help!
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Jimmy and I signed up for Netflix. Yeah welcome to the 21st century, right? We don't agree on movies, ever, but we do agree on TV shows. We just finished Sons of Anarchy {well caught up to current}, we're currently finishing up Entourage, and up next is Dexter. I really am glad we did this because it saves a lot of fights when it comes to "movie night".
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You know how I posted the picture of Kendall making the formations with her diapers the other day? Well it's gotten more interesting from there. She's been lining up EVERYTHING. I posted more pictures on Instagram and I've gotten comments telling me that it's a sign that she's ready to read and that it could mean she's gifted. I can't say I didn't burst with pride when I read those statements. I guess only time will tell but in the mean time I'm enjoying seeing what she comes up with next.
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You know how I posted the picture of Kendall making the formations with her diapers the other day? Well it's gotten more interesting from there. She's been lining up EVERYTHING. I posted more pictures on Instagram and I've gotten comments telling me that it's a sign that she's ready to read and that it could mean she's gifted. I can't say I didn't burst with pride when I read those statements. I guess only time will tell but in the mean time I'm enjoying seeing what she comes up with next.
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June 12, 2012
I'm Blank Because...
I'm weird because...
I like saltines with cream cheese.
I still make a wish at 11:11.
I love getting the mail.
I can't sleep with my hair down or socks on.
I hate showering.
I love grocery shopping {alone}.
I'm a bad friend because...
I talk about myself more than I should.
I don't call as much as I should.
I sometimes don't have the right words to say.
I don't have a filter.
I'm a good friend because...
No matter how long it's been we can pick up right where we left off.
I will always be there.
I get excited for my friends as if whatever was happening in their life was happening to me.
I will always be honest.
I am up for a good time, always.
I'm sad because...
I wish I had more girl time with my friends.
I worry about the unknown too much.
I wish Jimmy and I had more "husband wife time" {mind out of the gutter}.
I feel like I don't contribute enough.
I'm happy because...
My BBFF is coming to visit in exactly ONE month from today.
All the peace tees have been sent out! Enjoy!
Kendall is learning every day.
I decided to quit my job and be a SAHM.
My relationship with Jimmy has been off the charts awesome.
I'm excited for...
The future.
Story time starts back up tomorrow.
Jimmy to be finished with school, FINALLY.
Kendall's aDORAble 2nd birthday.
Big Brother to start.
I saw this on Little Miss Momma and thought it was a fun little prompt and I am feeling "blank" these days, so, yeah.
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