I am so very proud of my wonderful hubby. Right now he is participating (and hopefully finishing) his very first FULL marathon! For those that don’t know, a full marathon is 26.2 miles. Yep, you read that right: Twenty-six point two miles. I think he might be a little crazy! He has already completed 5 half-marathons, but that is only 13.1 miles (Only! Yeah right!). He is hoping for a finish time of 4 hours. That is about 9 minutes per mile. Like I said, crazy! But, I am immensely proud of him and can’t wait to be there when he crosses that finish line. I will repeat again, just in case you missed it the first time. He is RUNNING 26.2 miles right now. You might think about saying a prayer for him. I know I am! Oh, and L is very excited that daddy will be bringing home another medal for her. She doesn’t quite get that the 5 medals he has are NOT exactly hers. Crazy girl.
You might be wondering what I am doing while he is running. Well, right now, I am in a Starbucks on the campus of the University of Illinois. I had to walk about 2 miles to find ONE coffee shop! That is crazy! At Purdue, there is a coffee shop on just about every corner it seems. But, I have my knitting, I have WiFi, and I have movies. I am set for the next couple of hours! Yeah Me Time!!
So, we are trying to potty-train J. You would think that this would not be a difficult thing as we have done it before with L. Right? Uh, no. She is the most STUBBORN little girl. She says she “wants to be a baby like M.” I asked her if we needed to get her a bottle and if she needed to go back to sleeping in a crib. She said yes. How do you use reverse psychology on a kid like that? We are slowly getting there I guess. She has been using the little potty one or two times per day for the past week. She just doesn’t understand how to hold it until she can get to the potty. I’ve even tried the bribe that she can go to Vacation Bible School with sissy if she learns to use the potty. No luck. Any advice here would be much appreciated.
L did MUCH better at soccer practice Thursday night. As long as she figures out to take her hands out of her pockets while she is running, she’s going to be just fine. She still isn’t really aggressive, but for the most part she isn’t really an aggressive person. In fact, we are working with her on standing up for herself. There is a little girl in her pre-school class that has been pulling her hair and spitting at her. L says she has told the girl she doesn’t like her doing it, but the girl continues to do it. I think I am giving it the week and if she can’t get it to stop, I may say something to the teachers or the girl’s mom. I’m torn though. I don’t want to fight L’s battles for her, but she doesn’t understand how to fight them herself. We told her if she tells the girl she doesn’t like what she is doing and would she please stop and the girl WON’T stop, THEN she needs to go talk to her teachers. What do you think? Should I just let L handle it or should I step in? This little girl isn’t this way with JUST L. She has this aggressive behavior towards a lot of the other children in L’s class, but L seems to catch a lot of it.
I don’t know how it is where you live, but here in the fabulous state of Indiana, we are considering building Arks. I’m not even kidding the littlest bit. We have had so much rain. I am pretty sure it is the wettest April ever on record. As a farmer’s daughter, I learned a long time ago, you NEVER ask the rain to stop. However, a pause would be fantastic. I guess we did get that yesterday and today as it was absolutely gorgeous outside yesterday. It was about 62 degrees and sunny. It is a little cooler today and the sun isn’t out, but at least it isn’t raining…yet. But, there is water standing everywhere. It is times like these that I am really glad my hubby works at a lumber company. Anyone have any blue prints for an Ark? How about a canoe? Any type of water craft?
Have a great weekend!
With Love.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Missing Grandma
Five years ago today, we said good-bye to a very special member of our family. My grandmother (my mom's mom) passed away and went to join my grandfather in God's loving arms. My grandfather has been gone since December 12, 1990 and my grandmother had been alone for 15 years. They had been married for 45 years. Can you imagine being without your other half for that long? I can not even fathom it, nor do I ever want to.
Grandma Helen and Grandpa Phil were blessed with 5 children on their farm in Winamac, IN. They sadly had to learn what it was to lose a son in 1976 to a semi-truck accident. They loved their children and their 9 grand-children so much and taught us what it meant to work hard. Grandpa had been in the ARMY and Grandma had been a nurse, both during WWII. Grandma continued her nursing working as a labor and delivery nurse and then later as a hospice nurse. She cared greatly for others.
Man, my grandma could COOK too! Most of my greatest memories of grandma take place in her kitchen. She made awesome cinnamon rolls, incredible potato soup, amazing Reuben sandwiches (especially at midnight!) and my favorite was her Polish Perogies. NO ONE makes perogies like grandma did. Luckily she did teach me how she made them. Hopefully one day they will be as good as grandma's were. They were so good and I haven't made any in a while. I might have to change that very soon! I remember many visits waking up at midnight and having grandma in the kitchen making rolls for the next morning or frying up a Reuben sandwich for us.
Now, I know grandma wasn't perfect. Like anyone, she had her good points and not so good points. But, the woman knew how to love and she loved us all with all over her heart. She kept us busy (you didn't DARE comment that you were bored in her presence), but was always quick with a smile.
When she died, we had been waiting for the moment. I remember my mom calling me and I knew before I even picked up the phone. I had just left the hospital and came home to make sure L took a nap (she was only about 6 months old). I picked up the phone and just started crying. I remember putting L back in the car and heading back to the hospital. I remember E meeting me at the hospital and hugging me tight. I remember L having a complete blow-out at the hospital and trying to change her through my tears. I remember going into her room and holding her hand and just telling her I loved her and would miss her, but that I was so happy she was with Grandpa now.
I have NO DOUBT that Grandma and Grandpa are in God's Kingdom. They were both strong Catholics and loved God with all of their hearts. I can easily picture Grandpa meeting her at Peter's Gate with open arms.
I miss Grandma very much. And as much as I know how much I miss her, I know my mom misses her even more. I wish I knew what to say to her. She seemed so sad when I talked to her yesterday. She was a little better today, but I know she misses her mama. I can only imagine how she feels knowing how much I would miss her if she were gone. We both know that grandma is in a wonderful place and is healthy now. We know she is with her true love again and will be there to welcome us to heaven when our time comes. We miss you grandma. God Bless. We will see you again!
With Love,
Theresa
Grandma Helen and Grandpa Phil were blessed with 5 children on their farm in Winamac, IN. They sadly had to learn what it was to lose a son in 1976 to a semi-truck accident. They loved their children and their 9 grand-children so much and taught us what it meant to work hard. Grandpa had been in the ARMY and Grandma had been a nurse, both during WWII. Grandma continued her nursing working as a labor and delivery nurse and then later as a hospice nurse. She cared greatly for others.
Man, my grandma could COOK too! Most of my greatest memories of grandma take place in her kitchen. She made awesome cinnamon rolls, incredible potato soup, amazing Reuben sandwiches (especially at midnight!) and my favorite was her Polish Perogies. NO ONE makes perogies like grandma did. Luckily she did teach me how she made them. Hopefully one day they will be as good as grandma's were. They were so good and I haven't made any in a while. I might have to change that very soon! I remember many visits waking up at midnight and having grandma in the kitchen making rolls for the next morning or frying up a Reuben sandwich for us.
Now, I know grandma wasn't perfect. Like anyone, she had her good points and not so good points. But, the woman knew how to love and she loved us all with all over her heart. She kept us busy (you didn't DARE comment that you were bored in her presence), but was always quick with a smile.
When she died, we had been waiting for the moment. I remember my mom calling me and I knew before I even picked up the phone. I had just left the hospital and came home to make sure L took a nap (she was only about 6 months old). I picked up the phone and just started crying. I remember putting L back in the car and heading back to the hospital. I remember E meeting me at the hospital and hugging me tight. I remember L having a complete blow-out at the hospital and trying to change her through my tears. I remember going into her room and holding her hand and just telling her I loved her and would miss her, but that I was so happy she was with Grandpa now.
I have NO DOUBT that Grandma and Grandpa are in God's Kingdom. They were both strong Catholics and loved God with all of their hearts. I can easily picture Grandpa meeting her at Peter's Gate with open arms.
I miss Grandma very much. And as much as I know how much I miss her, I know my mom misses her even more. I wish I knew what to say to her. She seemed so sad when I talked to her yesterday. She was a little better today, but I know she misses her mama. I can only imagine how she feels knowing how much I would miss her if she were gone. We both know that grandma is in a wonderful place and is healthy now. We know she is with her true love again and will be there to welcome us to heaven when our time comes. We miss you grandma. God Bless. We will see you again!
With Love,
Theresa
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
The (Wo)Man In The Mirror
A couple of weeks ago, I wrote a post about making changes in my perspective of the way I see myself. You can read the post here. I really had been trying to look at myself differently, but not sure I really was. Then, two weeks ago, I really gave myself a good shake. I don't remember what I was wearing, but my wonderful husband told me I looked beautiful. Then my sweet little J told me, "Mommy, you look so pretty". How could I ignore those compliments? So, the next morning before I got dressed, I looked at myself in the mirror. And I mean REALLY looked at myself. I looked at my body from the front, side, and back. I looked at the lovely zit on my chin. I looked at my eyebrows that are in desperate need of some wax. I looked at the belly that is covered with stretch marks (aka battle wounds). Then I started to notice other things. I looked at my muscled quads. I looked at my bright eyes. I saw the definition that my arms have. I looked at my self from the side and realized there is a lot less there. I saw that my hips are not as "cushy" as they used to be. I REALLY looked at myself.
And, in that moment, I realized something. I really do not look bad. I don't. For almost 20 years, I have looked down on myself. I have thought badly about myself. I have compared myself to other women and always found myself coming up short. No longer. As I looked at myself, I came to the realization that all the stress about how I looked was just continually making me stress even more about it. My husband thinks I'm beautiful. My daughter thinks I am pretty. What else do I need? I have come to the decision that I am simply going to rock what I've got. Sure, I would still like to lose a little more weight and tone up some areas, but I am no longer going to let this action of putting myself down rule my thoughts anymore. I have to tell you. For the past two weeks, I have felt like I have had a one hundred pound weight lifted off of my shoulders and my heart. I am seeing myself differently. I am seeing myself clearly.
I'd like to think that part of my new thinking is my re-found relationship with God. I know that he loves me and cares about me, no matter what I look like. I would like to think I am FINALLY seeing myself through His eyes. Now, I know I am not perfect and that I will surely have days where I will get down on myself and start to feel negative again. But, I vow that I will NOT let that way of thinking rule me. I will OWN who I am. Again, I will "ROCK WHAT I'VE GOT"!! How about you? Can you look at yourself honestly and see yourself for who you REALLY are and not who your negative thinking THINKS you are?
Have a great day!
With Love!
And, in that moment, I realized something. I really do not look bad. I don't. For almost 20 years, I have looked down on myself. I have thought badly about myself. I have compared myself to other women and always found myself coming up short. No longer. As I looked at myself, I came to the realization that all the stress about how I looked was just continually making me stress even more about it. My husband thinks I'm beautiful. My daughter thinks I am pretty. What else do I need? I have come to the decision that I am simply going to rock what I've got. Sure, I would still like to lose a little more weight and tone up some areas, but I am no longer going to let this action of putting myself down rule my thoughts anymore. I have to tell you. For the past two weeks, I have felt like I have had a one hundred pound weight lifted off of my shoulders and my heart. I am seeing myself differently. I am seeing myself clearly.
I'd like to think that part of my new thinking is my re-found relationship with God. I know that he loves me and cares about me, no matter what I look like. I would like to think I am FINALLY seeing myself through His eyes. Now, I know I am not perfect and that I will surely have days where I will get down on myself and start to feel negative again. But, I vow that I will NOT let that way of thinking rule me. I will OWN who I am. Again, I will "ROCK WHAT I'VE GOT"!! How about you? Can you look at yourself honestly and see yourself for who you REALLY are and not who your negative thinking THINKS you are?
Have a great day!
With Love!
Friday, April 22, 2011
Five Question Friday
I just did a post and then realized I forgot to do 5 Question Friday from My Little Life. I really like doing these so I am going to really quick. If you want to participate, click on over, copy the questions and link up. Don't forget to let me know so I can check you out!
1. What is your favorite Easter tradition? I have hosted Easter Sunday lunch here at our house since E and I were married. I LOVE it! IT is really fun to have everyone here. A couple of years ago we started doing Easter Egg Hunts with the kiddos and it has been SO cute. This year all 5 of the little ones will be participating which should make for an interesting hunt! We are also having some friends come this year because they are living here in our town, but there family are all back in Pennsylvania where they are from. Our kids love Matt and Julie so it should be a great day!!
2. Are you a "shower" or a "long, hot bath" kind of person? Although occasionally I do like to take a long, hot bath, I am WAY more of a shower person. I do like to take long, hot showers though! Not much feels better than having incredibly hot water pounding on sore muscles!
3. Can you parallel park and if so when is the last time you did it? Sort of?!?! I haven't parallel parked in so long, I'm not sure if I could do it any more. I wasn't great at it when I first learned and haven't had to do it much, so I doubt I have gotten better. I would LOVE it if my van had the "park itself" feature! I get very nervous trying to find parking places downtown and will walk further if I can find a spot that I don't have to parallel park in!
4. What is your favorite Easter candy? All of them? :) No really, it is a 4 way tie. I can not decide between the 4 and I doubt I ever will be able to. I LOVE (in no particular order): Reeses Peanut Butter Eggs, Cadbury Creme Eggs, Cadbury Chocolate Eggs with the hard shell, and black jelly beans. Mmmm...now I really want some!!
5. Easter: do you go all out with the Easter Bunny or focus on the religious part of the holiday? We do both. L has learned the reason for the Easter season and why we celebrate. The Easter Bunny is like Santa in our house. The kids get Easter Baskets and will have an Egg hunt (see question 1), but I also talk about Jesus with them and make sure they understand it isn't all about the candy!
Have a great one!
With Love
1. What is your favorite Easter tradition? I have hosted Easter Sunday lunch here at our house since E and I were married. I LOVE it! IT is really fun to have everyone here. A couple of years ago we started doing Easter Egg Hunts with the kiddos and it has been SO cute. This year all 5 of the little ones will be participating which should make for an interesting hunt! We are also having some friends come this year because they are living here in our town, but there family are all back in Pennsylvania where they are from. Our kids love Matt and Julie so it should be a great day!!
2. Are you a "shower" or a "long, hot bath" kind of person? Although occasionally I do like to take a long, hot bath, I am WAY more of a shower person. I do like to take long, hot showers though! Not much feels better than having incredibly hot water pounding on sore muscles!
3. Can you parallel park and if so when is the last time you did it? Sort of?!?! I haven't parallel parked in so long, I'm not sure if I could do it any more. I wasn't great at it when I first learned and haven't had to do it much, so I doubt I have gotten better. I would LOVE it if my van had the "park itself" feature! I get very nervous trying to find parking places downtown and will walk further if I can find a spot that I don't have to parallel park in!
4. What is your favorite Easter candy? All of them? :) No really, it is a 4 way tie. I can not decide between the 4 and I doubt I ever will be able to. I LOVE (in no particular order): Reeses Peanut Butter Eggs, Cadbury Creme Eggs, Cadbury Chocolate Eggs with the hard shell, and black jelly beans. Mmmm...now I really want some!!
5. Easter: do you go all out with the Easter Bunny or focus on the religious part of the holiday? We do both. L has learned the reason for the Easter season and why we celebrate. The Easter Bunny is like Santa in our house. The kids get Easter Baskets and will have an Egg hunt (see question 1), but I also talk about Jesus with them and make sure they understand it isn't all about the candy!
Have a great one!
With Love
Moved
Today is Good Friday and although I have been through 31 Lenten seasons in my life, I don't think that I have ever felt quite so moved as I did today during Mass. This entire Lenten season has really gotten to me like no other has, but today was even more so. It really started with the opening song. We sang "The Old Rugged Cross" and I really listened to the words as I sang it and really felt it. Then the Gospel reading of the Passion of Christ was just absolutely haunting and beautiful at the same time. It was "The Passion Of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to John". Towards the end of the reading, John tells of how Jesus looked at his mother Mary as he hung on the cross and said, "Woman, behold, your son". Father's Homily then went on to discuss how he really likes this version of the Passion because it shows Jesus as a real person with a real Mother who had to watch him be scourged and beaten and abused and then hung on the cross to die. I don't know why, but I have never really thought of it that way before. As a parent, it made me really understand what Mary may have been thinking as she saw her son dying there. I pray to the Lord that I never have to know that pain of watching my child suffer in any way. Needless to say, I was in tears, which may not have been a big deal, but remember I sing in the choir, so I sit at the very front of the church. Oh well, hopefully I was not alone. It got worse during the Veneration of the Cross when I went up and kissed Jesus's feet on the cross. But, I found they were tears of sadness and pain, but also of comfort. I've known that Jesus died for my sins and I have believed that. But this year, I truly FEEL that. I am so grateful for the gift of grace that Jesus bestowed upon me when he died. I thank you Lord and pray that I can live in your word and teach my children with the grace that you have given me.
With Love
With Love
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Getting To Know This Soccer Mama!
Well, it is absolutely official. I AM A SOCCER MOM!!! I NEVER thought that would be the case! But, L had her first 2 soccer games this weekend. Yesterday's game was rough. She has inherited my fear of failure and cried a LOT yesterday. She cried because she was cold. She cried because a boy took the ball from her (never mind that this little 5 year old boy was EXCELLENT, I mean like AWESOME!!). She cried because she was hungry. Did I mention that she cried? I think she only played for about 15 seconds total (her choice, not the coach's). We had a discussion about it after the game and told her that we didn't care if she made mistakes. We just wanted her to try. Today was MUCH better. She discovered that she really likes playing defense. E says she just doesn't understand yet how to be aggressive and the pack of 5 year olds running around chasing the ball is a little overwhelming for her. But she really did well on defense. She stopped 3 people from kicking the ball towards the goal and then stopped 2 kids from scoring when she played goalie. I am really proud of her regardless, no matter how she does. But it is a lot easier to be proud of her when she tried hard! Good job L! Go Flames!
Now, for a little Getting To Know You from MannLand5. Feel free to join in, just head on over and link up. Let me know if you do though so I can check your answers out too!
1. what's something you've eaten and liked, but didn't think you would? I am not really a picky eater. The only things that I really do not like are mushrooms, it isn't so much the taste as the texture...yuck. The only thing I can really think of is asparagus. I didn't love it, but liked it better than I thought I would.
2. plastic surgery..yay or nay? Of course I would love to say no, but come on. I have carried 3 children in this belly and nursed them all too. You can be sure that if I ever win the lottery I am going straight to the plastic surgeon's office and signing up for the tummy tuck and the boob lift. I don't want them bigger, just back to where they used to be!!
3. 2 things you love about spring are.....? Well, I already said I love being able to wear less clothes. So 2 other things are the sandals that I get to pull out and the pretty pink toenail polish to go with!!
4. when's the last time you went on a picnic? It has been a while. The kids and I would have picnics a lot last summer for lunch. We would take all the food outside. I never really thought much about it, but L loved it and asked for a picnic every day!
5. what's your favorite app? Pandora radio. Hands down!!
6. who does the grocery shopping in your house? E and I have grocery shopped together since we started dating. Now, we just do it with 2 carts and 3 kids. That is Friday night family activity. We are an exciting group, aren't we!?!?
7. would you rather take a spin class or zumba? I would LOVE to take a zumba class! My gym is supposed to be getting it this summer and I can NOT wait!! I thought I would like to take a spin class, but my butt gets sore sitting on the bike seats when I am just biking. I don't even want to imagine how sore it would be after sitting on the spin class bikes that have absolutely NO padding!!
8. how often do you go out to dinner? We don't go out to dinner very often, the budget doesn't really allow it too much. Before children we went out a lot. Man, I wish I would have cooked more often then and saved the money. I didn't realize how good I had it only cooking for 2 people!
I hope that you have all had a wonderful weekend!!!
With Love,
Theresa
Now, for a little Getting To Know You from MannLand5. Feel free to join in, just head on over and link up. Let me know if you do though so I can check your answers out too!
1. what's something you've eaten and liked, but didn't think you would? I am not really a picky eater. The only things that I really do not like are mushrooms, it isn't so much the taste as the texture...yuck. The only thing I can really think of is asparagus. I didn't love it, but liked it better than I thought I would.
2. plastic surgery..yay or nay? Of course I would love to say no, but come on. I have carried 3 children in this belly and nursed them all too. You can be sure that if I ever win the lottery I am going straight to the plastic surgeon's office and signing up for the tummy tuck and the boob lift. I don't want them bigger, just back to where they used to be!!
3. 2 things you love about spring are.....? Well, I already said I love being able to wear less clothes. So 2 other things are the sandals that I get to pull out and the pretty pink toenail polish to go with!!
4. when's the last time you went on a picnic? It has been a while. The kids and I would have picnics a lot last summer for lunch. We would take all the food outside. I never really thought much about it, but L loved it and asked for a picnic every day!
5. what's your favorite app? Pandora radio. Hands down!!
6. who does the grocery shopping in your house? E and I have grocery shopped together since we started dating. Now, we just do it with 2 carts and 3 kids. That is Friday night family activity. We are an exciting group, aren't we!?!?
7. would you rather take a spin class or zumba? I would LOVE to take a zumba class! My gym is supposed to be getting it this summer and I can NOT wait!! I thought I would like to take a spin class, but my butt gets sore sitting on the bike seats when I am just biking. I don't even want to imagine how sore it would be after sitting on the spin class bikes that have absolutely NO padding!!
8. how often do you go out to dinner? We don't go out to dinner very often, the budget doesn't really allow it too much. Before children we went out a lot. Man, I wish I would have cooked more often then and saved the money. I didn't realize how good I had it only cooking for 2 people!
I hope that you have all had a wonderful weekend!!!
With Love,
Theresa
Friday, April 15, 2011
5 Question Friday
Happy Friday all! It has really been a nice day. We had a wonderful visit this morning with J's original speech therapist. She came over to visit and brought her baby girl with her. It was fantastic to see her. She couldn't get over how much J was talking and how well she was doing!! Then L had a little friend come over and they have been playing. Right now they are watching "Despicable Me" and eating their second bag of popcorn! It is very cute!! This movie is so fabulous!! Love it!
Well, it is 5 Question Friday. If you are interested in participating, head over to My Little Life and link up!!
1. What is your favorite sign of spring?
My favorite sign of spring is when the winter coats get put away and we can just wear jeans and either a T-shirt or a long sleeved shirt or a sweater. I can still wear hats and wristers, but don't have to be completely bundled up. Of course I find all the flowers pretty, but that is second in my book to the no winter coats!
2. What was your best birthday ever?
I have had some great birthdays. I always had great ones growing up so it is difficult to choose the best one. My 21st was fabulous (what I remember of it!) with my wonderful friends. My 31st (most recent) was really great too. My parents came up and took us all out to eat at Red Lobster and I know E took me out to dinner, but I can not remember where we went (that's bad, huh?). Then a couple days later, my dear sweet friend Casey took me out to a karaoke bar and we had a BLAST!! I am really looking forward to my 33rd birthday (2012) as my bestie Carli will be home from Ireland and I will be able to go out with her and Casey, my 2 closest friends.
3. What is your favorite dessert?
I LOVE anything with chocolate in it. But, my most favorite dessert doesn't actually have chocolate in it. My favorite dessert is the Bread Pudding from Nine Irish Brothers. Oh My Goodness!! It is so absolutely fabulous, it makes me drool just thinking about it!
4. What is the best excuse you've ever used to get out of a ticket?
I was pulled over once while attending Purdue University and I was driving WAY too fast down one of the main roads (Northwestern for the knowledgeable) on my way to Purduettes. I was going to be late and I would have been in TROUBLE big time!! I was about in tears when the officer pulled me over, but didn't want to cry my way out of a ticket. So, I was just honest with him. I told him I was a Purduette and would be in massive amounts of trouble if I was late. I promised I would NOT speed down Northwestern again if he just let me go. His niece happened to have been a Purduette and he understood. Thankfully, he let me go. I still never speed down that road!!
5. Do you wake up before your alarm, with your alarm, or after hitting snooze several times?
I do not set an alarm unless I have too. I have 3 little alarms that usually get me up when I need to. If I DO need to get up early, I usually hit snooze a couple of times.
Well, that's it for today! I hope you all have a fabulous day and weekend!!
With love!
Well, it is 5 Question Friday. If you are interested in participating, head over to My Little Life and link up!!
1. What is your favorite sign of spring?
My favorite sign of spring is when the winter coats get put away and we can just wear jeans and either a T-shirt or a long sleeved shirt or a sweater. I can still wear hats and wristers, but don't have to be completely bundled up. Of course I find all the flowers pretty, but that is second in my book to the no winter coats!
2. What was your best birthday ever?
I have had some great birthdays. I always had great ones growing up so it is difficult to choose the best one. My 21st was fabulous (what I remember of it!) with my wonderful friends. My 31st (most recent) was really great too. My parents came up and took us all out to eat at Red Lobster and I know E took me out to dinner, but I can not remember where we went (that's bad, huh?). Then a couple days later, my dear sweet friend Casey took me out to a karaoke bar and we had a BLAST!! I am really looking forward to my 33rd birthday (2012) as my bestie Carli will be home from Ireland and I will be able to go out with her and Casey, my 2 closest friends.
3. What is your favorite dessert?
I LOVE anything with chocolate in it. But, my most favorite dessert doesn't actually have chocolate in it. My favorite dessert is the Bread Pudding from Nine Irish Brothers. Oh My Goodness!! It is so absolutely fabulous, it makes me drool just thinking about it!
4. What is the best excuse you've ever used to get out of a ticket?
I was pulled over once while attending Purdue University and I was driving WAY too fast down one of the main roads (Northwestern for the knowledgeable) on my way to Purduettes. I was going to be late and I would have been in TROUBLE big time!! I was about in tears when the officer pulled me over, but didn't want to cry my way out of a ticket. So, I was just honest with him. I told him I was a Purduette and would be in massive amounts of trouble if I was late. I promised I would NOT speed down Northwestern again if he just let me go. His niece happened to have been a Purduette and he understood. Thankfully, he let me go. I still never speed down that road!!
5. Do you wake up before your alarm, with your alarm, or after hitting snooze several times?
I do not set an alarm unless I have too. I have 3 little alarms that usually get me up when I need to. If I DO need to get up early, I usually hit snooze a couple of times.
Well, that's it for today! I hope you all have a fabulous day and weekend!!
With love!
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Blessed
I feel very blessed today! There were several good things that happened today and I want to tell you about them.
1. I got to do 30 Day Shred without a 30 pound resistance (that means M wasn't "helping" me workout!)
2. I had L's Parent/Teacher conference and her teachers gave her glowing evaluations. They said she was absolutely ready for Kindergarten that and she does SO well in school. She is a leader and a good friend. She watches out for the others in her class and is always one of the first ones to want to jump up and help. They said they will really miss her when school is over.
3. I was able to run/walk outside today! It was absolutely beautiful! I did 3.6 miles and it really felt great!
4. The kids and I went out to play and it was a blast! We ran and ran outside and the kids rode their bikes and we just had a lot of fun.
5. I got to sit here on the computer for a bit while watching M play (since he refused to take a nap).
6. My very kind neighbor brought me some chocolate!
7. The original show "V" is on TV right now (why yes, I am a huge nerd...have we not already established that!).
8. I felt happier today then I have felt in a while. While I was running, I felt a lot of peace. Thank you Lord, I know it was from you.
I hope that your day has been blessed as well!!
With Love,
Theresa
1. I got to do 30 Day Shred without a 30 pound resistance (that means M wasn't "helping" me workout!)
2. I had L's Parent/Teacher conference and her teachers gave her glowing evaluations. They said she was absolutely ready for Kindergarten that and she does SO well in school. She is a leader and a good friend. She watches out for the others in her class and is always one of the first ones to want to jump up and help. They said they will really miss her when school is over.
3. I was able to run/walk outside today! It was absolutely beautiful! I did 3.6 miles and it really felt great!
4. The kids and I went out to play and it was a blast! We ran and ran outside and the kids rode their bikes and we just had a lot of fun.
5. I got to sit here on the computer for a bit while watching M play (since he refused to take a nap).
6. My very kind neighbor brought me some chocolate!
7. The original show "V" is on TV right now (why yes, I am a huge nerd...have we not already established that!).
8. I felt happier today then I have felt in a while. While I was running, I felt a lot of peace. Thank you Lord, I know it was from you.
I hope that your day has been blessed as well!!
With Love,
Theresa
Monday, April 11, 2011
Why Is There No...
Chocolate in this house?
Beer under this roof?
Ice cream in the fridge?
Macaroni and Cheese in the cupboard?
Cashmere in the yarn closet (yes, I have a yarn closet...don't seem so shocked!)
And while I'm at it...
Why isn't/aren't there more...
Money in the bank?
Sleeping at naptime?
Yarn in the yarn closet? (There is NEVER enough of that!) :)
Quality comedies on TV?
Self-cleaning houses?
People who care about other people?
Love and kindness in the world?
Mostly right now, I'd settle for the chocolate!!
With Love!
Beer under this roof?
Ice cream in the fridge?
Macaroni and Cheese in the cupboard?
Cashmere in the yarn closet (yes, I have a yarn closet...don't seem so shocked!)
And while I'm at it...
Why isn't/aren't there more...
Money in the bank?
Sleeping at naptime?
Yarn in the yarn closet? (There is NEVER enough of that!) :)
Quality comedies on TV?
Self-cleaning houses?
People who care about other people?
Love and kindness in the world?
Mostly right now, I'd settle for the chocolate!!
With Love!
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Getting To Know You Sunday!
Happy Sunday!! It has been a very busy day here in the our household. I got up early and did Day 2 of 30 Day Shred (read about my challenge to myself here) and then got the kiddos around with breakfast and everything. Then got ready and went to church. L had Sunday school and I had to rehearse what I was singing for mass. Mass was excellent. Our priest really is inspiring. This morning, the gospel was about Lazarus and Father talked about death and funerals. I know his words were much better, but to sum up a point that he made that really spoke to me was this: To live a happy life, look at your life backwards starting with your funeral. Who do you want there? What do you want to happen? How do you want to be remembered? Live your life accordingly! It really made me think. Am I living life how I want to end it? I have an amazing husband and three beautiful children. I have a wonderful family and incredible friends. I like to think that when it is my time, people will remember me fondly. They will remember that I am kind, I love to laugh and will start singing spontaneously. I hope that they will know that I am always there to lend a helping hand when I can. I know they will remember that I will and do knit just about everywhere and I'm sure some will find that funny. I pray that they will know and remember that I tried to be the best Christian I could be. I am not always perfect in that endeavor and it has taken me some time to find my way back to church, but I have always known that God was there waiting for me. I hope no one has to find out any of this anytime soon and that I have a long time left on this earth, but I like to think I am happy and that when my time comes, that will be evident.
Today we went to the Purdue University Spring Fest/Bug Bowl. What an experience!! I never got to go when I was in college because I seemed to always have a different commitment that weekend. We went with some friends and really had a fun time. L "learned" how to rope a cow and rode a peddle tractor, we watched a cricket spitting contest (Our friend Matt spit one over 40 feet!!), M LOVED his balloon and kept trying to catch it, and we even got to see a rocket launched! For me one of the biggest things though was J. She has in the past been TERRIFIED of animals. She would see a dog or cat and absolutely start shaking and crying. At my parent's house with the horses, she was scared to go out to the barn. She did better last time we were there and actually sat in the saddle atop one of the horses. Well at the Spring Fest, she pet 2 dogs, 3 bunnies, and a piglet!! She wanted to pet the sheep too (as did mommy), but couldn't get to them. Every animal she saw she wanted to pet. She really loved the bunnies and REALLY wanted to pet the 2 week old lamb. It made me SO happy to see her starting to get over this fear. The only thing that bummed me out was the garbage can full of wool that they had thrown away after they did a shearing of a sheep. I almost cried at all that wool in the trash. What a waste!!
OK, so now onto Getting To Know You Sunday! If you would like to participate, go over to MannLand5 and get the questions and link up! Leave me a link below in the comments too so I make sure I check you out!
1. Do you watch/read the news? Sometimes. I try and catch the 12 o'clock and the 5 o'clock news if I can. It isn't always possible, but I try. If something comes up on my MSN homepage that looks readworthy, I will read it. I usually have E keep me informed about the world news that I need to keep up on. No, not the most socially responsible way to get my news, but at least I am getting it!
2. How would you describe your "look"? Ha! This makes me laugh a little. I don't know that I really have a "look" really. I really don't care what is "in style" right now. I wear what is comfy to me. I see some styles and I like them so I will go with them. If I don't like them, I don't wear them. Skinny jeans took me a while to come around to, and I don't wear them that often, but I do like them. A lot of it depends on what I am doing as well. Most often you can find me in workout gear with a bandanna in my hair and sneakers on my feet. If it is something that I get to dress up a little more, I do like to be a little funky, maybe pairing things that other people wouldn't think of. My friend Casey says I have style, so maybe I do. But, it is my style, not what Cosmo says I should wear!
3. Did you play sports in high school or college? I did play sports in High School. I played volleyball, basketball, and I threw shotput and discus in track. I LOVED playing sports and am so excited that L is starting soccer!! I am super competitive about it though and struggle already to remember that she is only 5. I would have loved to play volleyball in college (and actually had some interest from some schools), but I wanted to sing at Purdue, so I became a Purduette instead!
4. Would you rather give up lipstick/gloss or high heels? I'd give up lipstick/gloss in an instant over my heels. I will never get rid of them. I will be the stooped over 80 year old tottering around in heels, I guarantee it! I love my heels. I may be 6 feet tall, but I married a 6 foot 5 man for a reason!! Love them, love them, love them!! Besides, I have zero arch in my feet and wearing heels pulls my arch up and makes wearing shoes much more comfortable than just a pair of flats.
5. What's your favorite show to watch on TV? I don't even know where to begin with this list!! I don't think I can narrow it down to just one, so how about my top 5? I love LEVERAGE, True Blood, Sons Of Anarchy, Army Wives, and Modern Family. Seriously this list could go on a lot longer!! I do not do reality shows except The Biggest Loser though.
6. Would you rather bake or cook? I absolutely LOVE to bake. I really like to cook too. I don't bake a whole lot though because then I have the baked goods here at the house and I just want to eat them which doesn't really aid in the weight loss progress. I just wish I could have someone else clean up the mess.
7. Shorts or skirts? Skirts. I do not like to wear shorts and it is a rare occasion for me to be found in them. I'll wear skirts over them every time. In fact, I actually only own 3 pairs of shorts and they are all gym shorts, one for occasionally working out in and 2 for wearing around the house.
8. What's your favorite scary movie? Scary movie or horror movie? I think they are two different things. I do not like horror movies. You know the kind I mean, where someone is always chopping up someone else. There is always that madman (or woman) like in Friday the 13th, Texas Chainsaw Massacre, or Halloween. I just don't dig those, well with the exception of the Scream series, those I like. Now scary movies are different to me. Scary movies can be thrilling without being terrifying or vomit inducing! I LOVE vampire and werewolf movies (and I'm not just talking Twilight here people!). I like murder mystery type movies too. But my favorite scary movie? Hmm...Silence Of The Lambs!!
Well, that is it for me today. I hope you have a wonderful rest of your weekend!!
With Love!
Today we went to the Purdue University Spring Fest/Bug Bowl. What an experience!! I never got to go when I was in college because I seemed to always have a different commitment that weekend. We went with some friends and really had a fun time. L "learned" how to rope a cow and rode a peddle tractor, we watched a cricket spitting contest (Our friend Matt spit one over 40 feet!!), M LOVED his balloon and kept trying to catch it, and we even got to see a rocket launched! For me one of the biggest things though was J. She has in the past been TERRIFIED of animals. She would see a dog or cat and absolutely start shaking and crying. At my parent's house with the horses, she was scared to go out to the barn. She did better last time we were there and actually sat in the saddle atop one of the horses. Well at the Spring Fest, she pet 2 dogs, 3 bunnies, and a piglet!! She wanted to pet the sheep too (as did mommy), but couldn't get to them. Every animal she saw she wanted to pet. She really loved the bunnies and REALLY wanted to pet the 2 week old lamb. It made me SO happy to see her starting to get over this fear. The only thing that bummed me out was the garbage can full of wool that they had thrown away after they did a shearing of a sheep. I almost cried at all that wool in the trash. What a waste!!
OK, so now onto Getting To Know You Sunday! If you would like to participate, go over to MannLand5 and get the questions and link up! Leave me a link below in the comments too so I make sure I check you out!
1. Do you watch/read the news? Sometimes. I try and catch the 12 o'clock and the 5 o'clock news if I can. It isn't always possible, but I try. If something comes up on my MSN homepage that looks readworthy, I will read it. I usually have E keep me informed about the world news that I need to keep up on. No, not the most socially responsible way to get my news, but at least I am getting it!
2. How would you describe your "look"? Ha! This makes me laugh a little. I don't know that I really have a "look" really. I really don't care what is "in style" right now. I wear what is comfy to me. I see some styles and I like them so I will go with them. If I don't like them, I don't wear them. Skinny jeans took me a while to come around to, and I don't wear them that often, but I do like them. A lot of it depends on what I am doing as well. Most often you can find me in workout gear with a bandanna in my hair and sneakers on my feet. If it is something that I get to dress up a little more, I do like to be a little funky, maybe pairing things that other people wouldn't think of. My friend Casey says I have style, so maybe I do. But, it is my style, not what Cosmo says I should wear!
3. Did you play sports in high school or college? I did play sports in High School. I played volleyball, basketball, and I threw shotput and discus in track. I LOVED playing sports and am so excited that L is starting soccer!! I am super competitive about it though and struggle already to remember that she is only 5. I would have loved to play volleyball in college (and actually had some interest from some schools), but I wanted to sing at Purdue, so I became a Purduette instead!
4. Would you rather give up lipstick/gloss or high heels? I'd give up lipstick/gloss in an instant over my heels. I will never get rid of them. I will be the stooped over 80 year old tottering around in heels, I guarantee it! I love my heels. I may be 6 feet tall, but I married a 6 foot 5 man for a reason!! Love them, love them, love them!! Besides, I have zero arch in my feet and wearing heels pulls my arch up and makes wearing shoes much more comfortable than just a pair of flats.
5. What's your favorite show to watch on TV? I don't even know where to begin with this list!! I don't think I can narrow it down to just one, so how about my top 5? I love LEVERAGE, True Blood, Sons Of Anarchy, Army Wives, and Modern Family. Seriously this list could go on a lot longer!! I do not do reality shows except The Biggest Loser though.
6. Would you rather bake or cook? I absolutely LOVE to bake. I really like to cook too. I don't bake a whole lot though because then I have the baked goods here at the house and I just want to eat them which doesn't really aid in the weight loss progress. I just wish I could have someone else clean up the mess.
7. Shorts or skirts? Skirts. I do not like to wear shorts and it is a rare occasion for me to be found in them. I'll wear skirts over them every time. In fact, I actually only own 3 pairs of shorts and they are all gym shorts, one for occasionally working out in and 2 for wearing around the house.
8. What's your favorite scary movie? Scary movie or horror movie? I think they are two different things. I do not like horror movies. You know the kind I mean, where someone is always chopping up someone else. There is always that madman (or woman) like in Friday the 13th, Texas Chainsaw Massacre, or Halloween. I just don't dig those, well with the exception of the Scream series, those I like. Now scary movies are different to me. Scary movies can be thrilling without being terrifying or vomit inducing! I LOVE vampire and werewolf movies (and I'm not just talking Twilight here people!). I like murder mystery type movies too. But my favorite scary movie? Hmm...Silence Of The Lambs!!
Well, that is it for me today. I hope you have a wonderful rest of your weekend!!
With Love!
Saturday, April 9, 2011
My New Challenge
It has been no secret that I am on an adventure to get fit, lose weight, and look HOT. But, unfortunately, I have really hit a wall. So, I knew I needed to make a change. I love my Body Pump class, but I have decided to skip it for the next 2 months. Instead, I have decided that I am going to complete Jillian Michael's 30 Day Shred in 30 consecutive days and then follow it up with her Ripped In 30 in 30 consecutive days. This is something I have never done. I have completed the Shred before, but I was never able to do it in 30 days straight. I was trying to do it while doing Body Pump too and I have come to the conclusion that my knees just won't take doing both of them. I am really excited about this challenge and have even recruited a couple of other people to try it with me. I started it this morning and was so glad when it was over!!!
Add to it the fact that I am still trying to complete the Couch To 5K program and to continue to train for the Bumble Run 10K in September, and I am one tired mama already today. But, I know that this is a good thing for me. I am making very positive changes in my life and am excited about it all. I know it isn't all about the number on the scale and I think that after my Biggest Loser contest is over, I may only step on the scale about once a month. I get to stressing about it and it would be nice not to do that anymore. Bottom line is I want to be healthy and be a good example for my children. Oh, and I want to look HOT! ;)
I hope that you are having a great Saturday. The sun is finally out and the kids are cleaning toys. Not a bad day!
With Love,
Theresa
Add to it the fact that I am still trying to complete the Couch To 5K program and to continue to train for the Bumble Run 10K in September, and I am one tired mama already today. But, I know that this is a good thing for me. I am making very positive changes in my life and am excited about it all. I know it isn't all about the number on the scale and I think that after my Biggest Loser contest is over, I may only step on the scale about once a month. I get to stressing about it and it would be nice not to do that anymore. Bottom line is I want to be healthy and be a good example for my children. Oh, and I want to look HOT! ;)
I hope that you are having a great Saturday. The sun is finally out and the kids are cleaning toys. Not a bad day!
With Love,
Theresa
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Stress
Stress just comes at the wrong time doesn't it? Not that there is ever a good time for stress, but it seems like when it rains it pours. There is a lot of stress going on in this house. I don't know about you, but stress just makes me want to eat and have a drink, I mean LOTS of drinks. Or, it makes me want to shop, which I can't do because that costs money and we are really trying to save our pennies. So, how to deal with it? Honestly, I don't think I handle it well. I am ashamed to say that I fear the kids catch the brunt end of the stress. I try really hard not to yell and get upset with them, but it is difficult. Then, on top of it all I think I have some hormone imbalance going on and I don't think that is helping my case. Without getting to graphic, some female things are kind of crazy and then my weight is up and down, up and down. Sucks.
Oh well, here is a pretty picture to remember why I do the things I do.
With Love
Oh well, here is a pretty picture to remember why I do the things I do.
Friday, April 1, 2011
5 Question and A Little Fill In The Blank!
It is Friday!! We just had a great week at my parents' house. I completely cleaned out my grandparents' kitchen on Wednesday. Talk about a lot of work. It was worth it though. I hope that it really helped them!!
So, here is a little
1. Have you ever had surgery? Yes, 3 times. The first was an ACL reconstruction on my right knee in '94. The second was another knee surgery to remove a screw from my knee in '01. Then the third was my emergency appendectomy in '09.
2. Ever ride in an ambulance? Yep. When I worked at a summer camp, one of the kids hit her head on the bottom of the pool and she was really dizzy and going in and out of conscience. So, she had to go to the hospital in an ambulance and since I was in charge, I went too. She was OK.
3. How are you in a medical emergency? Panicked? Calm? I think I am pretty calm. L busted her head open a couple of years ago and for the most part I was pretty calm. I think as a mom, you don't have the luxury of being panicked in an emergency.
4. Do you have a garden? Flowers or veggies? I attempt some plants every year. But, I do NOT have a green thumb. I get some flowers and some green tomatoes to fulfill my cravings. That is about it!
5. When did you move out of your parents house? I moved out when I went to college. I lived at home the summer between my freshman and sophomore year and then again for a couple of weeks after I graduated, but that is about it.
No, a little Fill In The Blank...
1. The best prank I ever pulled was none. I haven't ever really pulled much of a prank. I'm not really a prankster.
2. The best prank ever pulled on me was apparently unmemorable. For some reason, I just don't remember any pranks that have been played on me personally. I do remember the best prank I have ever seen though. My junior year in HS, the senior class put a porno on the morning announcements. My speech class was in charge of doing the announcements. So, it was quite a surprise when there were naked people there instead!
3. A day without the beautiful music my children make is a day wasted.
4. The most important things in life are the tiny little moments that make you smile and let you know God is there. The toothy baby grins, the sweet giggles, the hugs, the smiles, the laughs, the songs, watching the kids pick up a bug and be so excited about it, the kiss my husband gives me when he comes home at the end of the day; THOSE are the important things!
5. I dream of what my little ones will be like when they get older, what E and I will be like when we are my parents' age, and about my own little craft room when we build our house. :)
6. I dread the day I have to say good-bye to my parents.
7. A discovery I made this week was that my children are very brave. J has been terrified of my mom's horses, but she sat on the biggest one twice yesterday! L sat on him too and learned how to get in and out of the saddle. M even pet him and laughed and giggled the whole time. It was awesome to see!
Well, that's it for today. I hope you have all had a great week and have an even better weekend!!
With love!
So, here is a little
1. Have you ever had surgery? Yes, 3 times. The first was an ACL reconstruction on my right knee in '94. The second was another knee surgery to remove a screw from my knee in '01. Then the third was my emergency appendectomy in '09.
2. Ever ride in an ambulance? Yep. When I worked at a summer camp, one of the kids hit her head on the bottom of the pool and she was really dizzy and going in and out of conscience. So, she had to go to the hospital in an ambulance and since I was in charge, I went too. She was OK.
3. How are you in a medical emergency? Panicked? Calm? I think I am pretty calm. L busted her head open a couple of years ago and for the most part I was pretty calm. I think as a mom, you don't have the luxury of being panicked in an emergency.
4. Do you have a garden? Flowers or veggies? I attempt some plants every year. But, I do NOT have a green thumb. I get some flowers and some green tomatoes to fulfill my cravings. That is about it!
5. When did you move out of your parents house? I moved out when I went to college. I lived at home the summer between my freshman and sophomore year and then again for a couple of weeks after I graduated, but that is about it.
No, a little Fill In The Blank...
1. The best prank I ever pulled was none. I haven't ever really pulled much of a prank. I'm not really a prankster.
2. The best prank ever pulled on me was apparently unmemorable. For some reason, I just don't remember any pranks that have been played on me personally. I do remember the best prank I have ever seen though. My junior year in HS, the senior class put a porno on the morning announcements. My speech class was in charge of doing the announcements. So, it was quite a surprise when there were naked people there instead!
3. A day without the beautiful music my children make is a day wasted.
4. The most important things in life are the tiny little moments that make you smile and let you know God is there. The toothy baby grins, the sweet giggles, the hugs, the smiles, the laughs, the songs, watching the kids pick up a bug and be so excited about it, the kiss my husband gives me when he comes home at the end of the day; THOSE are the important things!
5. I dream of what my little ones will be like when they get older, what E and I will be like when we are my parents' age, and about my own little craft room when we build our house. :)
6. I dread the day I have to say good-bye to my parents.
7. A discovery I made this week was that my children are very brave. J has been terrified of my mom's horses, but she sat on the biggest one twice yesterday! L sat on him too and learned how to get in and out of the saddle. M even pet him and laughed and giggled the whole time. It was awesome to see!
Well, that's it for today. I hope you have all had a great week and have an even better weekend!!
With love!
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