At long last Spring has found its way to New England! Yesterday and today have been gorgeous and we have been taking in outdoors. This morning hubby and I took our first hike of the season. It was so nice to be back on trails (though swatting away a million mosquitoes was not so fun).
After we picked up the children from my parents, we headed over to a friends' house to kick off the unofficial summer. (For Americans, Memorial Day Weekend is the start of the summer season...though the calendar disagrees.)
We had a relaxing time watching the kids. Wait, let me say that again, we had a relaxing time watching the kids. They had a ball swimming, catching slimy frogs, and hanging with their friends. This was the first party that we could relax and enjoy ourselves. Gregory was a dream child and was not the loudest by any stretch of the imagination.
The best part of the whole thing was really talking to our friends that we usually see in quick hello/goodbye fashion in the pick up and drop off lines.
Hope your summer is starting out well.
30.5.11
Part II, Day 34: A Gift!
Today my parents gave me and hubby a very huge gift! They took our three little ones for an over night. We were so giddy with excitement that the morning passed so super slowly. Thankfully, 3:30 pm rolled around eventually.
We did some exciting things tonight:
1. Mass without interruptions. I can't tell you the last time we listened to the readings and homily at Mass. That was great!
2. Ran into some great school families at Mass and reconnected with some amazing moms I haven't seen in a few months.
3. Went shopping and had time to meander.
4. Drove through my university campus and had dinner at a great Irish bar we found.
5. Getting ready for bed in a quiet house devoid of children and their schenanigans.
I am sure I will be excited to see them tomorrow. For today, I am excited to have down time, reconnect with my husband, and revel in the silence.
We did some exciting things tonight:
1. Mass without interruptions. I can't tell you the last time we listened to the readings and homily at Mass. That was great!
2. Ran into some great school families at Mass and reconnected with some amazing moms I haven't seen in a few months.
3. Went shopping and had time to meander.
4. Drove through my university campus and had dinner at a great Irish bar we found.
5. Getting ready for bed in a quiet house devoid of children and their schenanigans.
I am sure I will be excited to see them tomorrow. For today, I am excited to have down time, reconnect with my husband, and revel in the silence.
28.5.11
Part II, Day 33: Finding Me - Again!
This journey has been a wonderful journey back to me. It is actually a surprising find along the way. For the first time in years, I woke up feeling like me. I was energized and ready to start the day. It was so fantastic. The catching up on lost sleep is probably the best part of this project, because in that way I have been finding parts of me that have been buried deep in sleep deprivation, children tugging on me, and a million other things.
Years ago, if anyone would tell me that I would lose so much of myself in such a short time, I would not have believed you. And though the reasons are three fantastic reasons. I have missed myself. I have become a stressed, screechy person. I am sure that I am not fun to be around. I went from being the Happy Hour Queen to the Queen of the Cranky. A title I want to relinquish. Does anyone want it?
The things that used to define me and my person have evaporated. I have lost my name in the process. I have become someone I do not recognize in the mirror most days. My eyes are tired, my body is not the same shape. My days are surrounded with little people and their daily grind. I have been tugged in every direction possible. Life is chaotic and upside down on a good day. Often I feel as though I do not contribute to society in a meaningful way. In short, I am a stay at home mom who is very over qualified with degrees hanging on the wall that are not being used.
Finding some worth in the midst of trying to find happiness is such a bonus. And now that I think about it, how was I thinking I would find happiness without rediscovering and reloving myself? I think women of our generation were sold a giant lie. We were told we could be anything we wanted to be career wise. We were told that we could earn what a man does or more! We were told that we could have a family and balance work without any problems. We were taught that being a stay at home mother was so 50s and so not worthwhile. I want a refund!
We can have all those things listed above with major sacrifices or we can just be as we need to be at that particular time in our lives and not feel the guilt for not being a Super woman. I hope our daughters grow up and appreciate that they can do whatever they want and be whomever they want without the guilt of having to be the best of the best at everything. I hope my daughters will find careers that are fulfilling and families that are loving. I hope that they are supported when/if they decided to put career on hold to raise a family. I hope that they are the best persons that they can be and feel their worth in gold.
This song has been bouncing around my head all day. So I share it with you:
Years ago, if anyone would tell me that I would lose so much of myself in such a short time, I would not have believed you. And though the reasons are three fantastic reasons. I have missed myself. I have become a stressed, screechy person. I am sure that I am not fun to be around. I went from being the Happy Hour Queen to the Queen of the Cranky. A title I want to relinquish. Does anyone want it?
The things that used to define me and my person have evaporated. I have lost my name in the process. I have become someone I do not recognize in the mirror most days. My eyes are tired, my body is not the same shape. My days are surrounded with little people and their daily grind. I have been tugged in every direction possible. Life is chaotic and upside down on a good day. Often I feel as though I do not contribute to society in a meaningful way. In short, I am a stay at home mom who is very over qualified with degrees hanging on the wall that are not being used.
Finding some worth in the midst of trying to find happiness is such a bonus. And now that I think about it, how was I thinking I would find happiness without rediscovering and reloving myself? I think women of our generation were sold a giant lie. We were told we could be anything we wanted to be career wise. We were told that we could earn what a man does or more! We were told that we could have a family and balance work without any problems. We were taught that being a stay at home mother was so 50s and so not worthwhile. I want a refund!
We can have all those things listed above with major sacrifices or we can just be as we need to be at that particular time in our lives and not feel the guilt for not being a Super woman. I hope our daughters grow up and appreciate that they can do whatever they want and be whomever they want without the guilt of having to be the best of the best at everything. I hope my daughters will find careers that are fulfilling and families that are loving. I hope that they are supported when/if they decided to put career on hold to raise a family. I hope that they are the best persons that they can be and feel their worth in gold.
This song has been bouncing around my head all day. So I share it with you:
26.5.11
Part II, Day 32: Sunshine and chirping birds
Spring returned yesterday and was here in full force today. Spring, glorious Spring. The month of rain has taken a break and we are basking in the sun in shorts! I was really convinced that this summer would be the winter that never ended. There is even still - yes, still - a pile of snow behind the movie theater. I think another couple of days of this glorious golden ball in the sky will make that big boy evaporate. And I hope that the powers that be in the parking lot of the shopping mall realize that it is silly to pile that much snow in one pile next year!
My little guy was in a glorious mood too. Maybe he has some vitamin D deficiency like his mother? If every day were like today, parenting my three children would be a walk in the park. Or a stroll through a meadow. Or a meander through the woods. My Harriet even asked me today why I wasn't cross. Now that just made me stop and really think about how crazy I have been for the past years.
On doctor's orders (and why did it take doctor's orders?) I am resting a bit each day while this horrible tiredness that has been plaguing me goes away. You know, last year I had mononucleosis and did not know it. I am wondering if I somehow have that again? Probably not, it is probably just that now that I am taking stock of me for a change, that I am noticing these things.
I am tired today. Last night was not an easy night. One of the children had an accident in the middle of the night. That wee accident necessitated washing half of the bathroom with bleach, a midnight shower with scrub down, a clothing change and a load of laundry. After all that, I was wide awake, surfing the web from my iPod and wondering if I could sneak in a bit of a later morning when I remembered that one of my kids was saying the Pledge of Allegiance at morning prayers.
So, today has been glorious and gloriously tiring. All in all a great day!
My little guy was in a glorious mood too. Maybe he has some vitamin D deficiency like his mother? If every day were like today, parenting my three children would be a walk in the park. Or a stroll through a meadow. Or a meander through the woods. My Harriet even asked me today why I wasn't cross. Now that just made me stop and really think about how crazy I have been for the past years.
On doctor's orders (and why did it take doctor's orders?) I am resting a bit each day while this horrible tiredness that has been plaguing me goes away. You know, last year I had mononucleosis and did not know it. I am wondering if I somehow have that again? Probably not, it is probably just that now that I am taking stock of me for a change, that I am noticing these things.
I am tired today. Last night was not an easy night. One of the children had an accident in the middle of the night. That wee accident necessitated washing half of the bathroom with bleach, a midnight shower with scrub down, a clothing change and a load of laundry. After all that, I was wide awake, surfing the web from my iPod and wondering if I could sneak in a bit of a later morning when I remembered that one of my kids was saying the Pledge of Allegiance at morning prayers.
So, today has been glorious and gloriously tiring. All in all a great day!
Part II, Day 31: Looking in the Mirror
Today I caught my reflection in the mirror. I was surprised at what I saw. Gone were the very deep dark circles under my eyes. Yes, there are still tiredness circles, but they are no longer the color of eggplant, rather they are about 200% lighter! (Perhaps you can imagine just how dark they were!)
I have been forcing myself to do the minimum of 20 minutes a day of exercising. No that is ridiculously low, but I have never done something 7 days a week, so it feels really good. I have only had one really good workout this past week though, so my goal for next week is to make it to the gym or at least pop in an exercise video into the computer at least 3 times. (Our living room does not have a TV, so I use the computer to workout in here.)
Finally, after 2 days shy of a week, I feel a difference in my body. It is really strange. How is it possible to feel a difference after just five days? I don't understand that. I have realized that I was not eating out of control before, but for some reason the order I am eating things this week and the proportion of protein versus carbs is really talking to my body. How could one lousy tweak have such an impact. I will reveal how much I have lost this week Thursday - my official weigh in day.
If this is all it takes to lose the baby weight and regain myself, any amount of work is totally worth it. I just hope that we can get my body back to burning a reasonable amount of fuel to energize itself. I worry that my anorexia in high school has long term effects that will never fix itself. I can't believe looking back at pictures of my 15 and 16 year old self that I ever thought I was fat! I just want to go back and give my young self a hug and tell her that everything will be ok, and that starvation is not worth anything. I often worried that I would be broken from that experience, but in hindsight, it has made me appreciate the thought of fueling the body and really embracing food in a wholesome way.
Some times I wonder how many angels I have out there caring for me. There must be an army. For some of the things I have been through and some things that I just barely avoided in life. There is no other explanation.
This song is such a comfort song for me. Hope it gives a hugs to you too.
I have been forcing myself to do the minimum of 20 minutes a day of exercising. No that is ridiculously low, but I have never done something 7 days a week, so it feels really good. I have only had one really good workout this past week though, so my goal for next week is to make it to the gym or at least pop in an exercise video into the computer at least 3 times. (Our living room does not have a TV, so I use the computer to workout in here.)
Finally, after 2 days shy of a week, I feel a difference in my body. It is really strange. How is it possible to feel a difference after just five days? I don't understand that. I have realized that I was not eating out of control before, but for some reason the order I am eating things this week and the proportion of protein versus carbs is really talking to my body. How could one lousy tweak have such an impact. I will reveal how much I have lost this week Thursday - my official weigh in day.
If this is all it takes to lose the baby weight and regain myself, any amount of work is totally worth it. I just hope that we can get my body back to burning a reasonable amount of fuel to energize itself. I worry that my anorexia in high school has long term effects that will never fix itself. I can't believe looking back at pictures of my 15 and 16 year old self that I ever thought I was fat! I just want to go back and give my young self a hug and tell her that everything will be ok, and that starvation is not worth anything. I often worried that I would be broken from that experience, but in hindsight, it has made me appreciate the thought of fueling the body and really embracing food in a wholesome way.
Some times I wonder how many angels I have out there caring for me. There must be an army. For some of the things I have been through and some things that I just barely avoided in life. There is no other explanation.
This song is such a comfort song for me. Hope it gives a hugs to you too.
24.5.11
Part II, Day 30: Panic!
It is raining and thundering. And what is my five year old doing? Running around, flailing his arms screaming, "It is thundering! I am panicking!!!" This is causing his sisters to run around crying about losing electricity... which because I am still on here means we still have power. I just hope that this storm passes quickly. It could be a long night with three little ones crying about panicking and panicking each other more and more.
The topic of conversation has now turned to tornadoes. They are now panicked that our house will be demolished in a tornado. We have not told them about the tornadoes this week, so I can only imagine that they are praying for the tornado victims from earlier this week. While I am glad for the social conscious part of their school curriculum. Panicking 5-6 year olds is not welcomed.
Now we have just had our first hit of lightening. My husband is telling them how to tell how far away a storm is and just announced that the storm is directly over us. Thanks... now we are all panicking. This child hates lightening. The only time I liked it was when we were in the Petronas Tower in Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) during a lightening storm and we watched lightening hit the building near where I was standing by the window and travel around the steel structure. That was cool - freaky - but cool. Lightening over my head, shaking our old farm house. Not so cool.
The topic of conversation has now turned to tornadoes. They are now panicked that our house will be demolished in a tornado. We have not told them about the tornadoes this week, so I can only imagine that they are praying for the tornado victims from earlier this week. While I am glad for the social conscious part of their school curriculum. Panicking 5-6 year olds is not welcomed.
Now we have just had our first hit of lightening. My husband is telling them how to tell how far away a storm is and just announced that the storm is directly over us. Thanks... now we are all panicking. This child hates lightening. The only time I liked it was when we were in the Petronas Tower in Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) during a lightening storm and we watched lightening hit the building near where I was standing by the window and travel around the steel structure. That was cool - freaky - but cool. Lightening over my head, shaking our old farm house. Not so cool.
Part II, Day 29: Karate, revisited
Today I took the kids back to the Karate dojo to try out a full class of Little Samurais. They loved it. Even Gregory.
Weeks ago when we started talking about karate for Gregory we were concerned with how his sensory and Asperger issues would deal with the karate as a sport. He is already a soccer drop out and we want to shield him from trauma by other parents getting angry at him, etc.
I was invited to stay in the dojo today for half of the class to see how he assimilated. I was pleased to see that he was trying his darnedest to participate in an appropriate manner. He could not help himself a few times to talk out loud and he was a little lost being such a visual learner. But he passed! All three were invited to join the dojo!
I am very excited for them to do Karate and hope that they will receive the tools they need to be proud of themselves and learn to respect more fully! It is funny how sometimes life takes you down a path that you never expected to return.
When I was in university, we had to participate in a year of sports or sports classes for a requirement for graduation. I signed up for Karate because I always wanted to take the sport, but had never had the gumption to just tell my parents. I was too shy about it because I thought that it was not "feminine" enough. I loved Karate and would have graduated a black belt, but I decided to go to Spain for a year, and upon returning I never went back to the dojo. It was Senior year, there were too many graduation requirements I needed to do to ensure graduation with just three years on campus. Maybe after they are assimilated I will return to the dojo and my first athletic love. :)
Weeks ago when we started talking about karate for Gregory we were concerned with how his sensory and Asperger issues would deal with the karate as a sport. He is already a soccer drop out and we want to shield him from trauma by other parents getting angry at him, etc.
I was invited to stay in the dojo today for half of the class to see how he assimilated. I was pleased to see that he was trying his darnedest to participate in an appropriate manner. He could not help himself a few times to talk out loud and he was a little lost being such a visual learner. But he passed! All three were invited to join the dojo!
I am very excited for them to do Karate and hope that they will receive the tools they need to be proud of themselves and learn to respect more fully! It is funny how sometimes life takes you down a path that you never expected to return.
When I was in university, we had to participate in a year of sports or sports classes for a requirement for graduation. I signed up for Karate because I always wanted to take the sport, but had never had the gumption to just tell my parents. I was too shy about it because I thought that it was not "feminine" enough. I loved Karate and would have graduated a black belt, but I decided to go to Spain for a year, and upon returning I never went back to the dojo. It was Senior year, there were too many graduation requirements I needed to do to ensure graduation with just three years on campus. Maybe after they are assimilated I will return to the dojo and my first athletic love. :)
22.5.11
Part II, Day 28: Ready for a Mamacation
I am truly excited for tonight. My mom friends and I are getting ready for what I have dubbed our monthly Mamacation night. We usually end up at a local Mexican restaurant drinking margaritas and snacking while chatting the night away. Tonight, though it seems as though we will be just a few...that is ok. I have had quite a weekend and any time away from the house seems like a bit of heavenly time. That must sound horrible...
All of our kids have been beyond wound up for the last month, as I have complained quite a bit about on here. I have started a new low, low calorie diet that is ok, but is leaving me a little hungry here and there. My darling husband has been baking delectable treats all weekend that I can't eat. (Thanks for the support this first weekend...) The twins threw tantrums when I told them that we were all going to Mass as a family. And now I have a bit of resentment built up toward everyone after they all either ignored me or half heartedly gave me peace today during Mass.
In a fit of anger, I told them that they can just count Christmas, Easter, and their birthdays off from the gifts list. Santa and the Easter Bunny will no longer visit us. I expected tears of rage. Instead, the children laughed at me. Really? When I was a kid, I would have been spanked for that and grounded for weeks. Spanking is not allowed and grounding them in the house makes my life harder... I can't take away video games because they don't even have any! That leaves play date removal. None on the horizon. So I decided to talk to them. They said that I misunderstood. They were sorry that they did not want to go to Mass, and would do a better job.
After lunch of a delectable frittata, I convinced the family to go on a walk with me. In a very short time we covered 2 miles. The kids did not whine too much. The whole time though, I felt like my husband was just along physically. I felt like he was not counting it as exercise and just counting down the minutes until he could leave for the gym for his real exercise.
I am really disappointed in a way with the family today. I feel as though I am making a huge change in my life with no real support. It is so hard to eat this high protein, low carb diet that is also low cal when they are all eating sausages, fresh baked products, crap cereal (I have been forbidden from cereal until they figure out why I am having so much trouble losing the baby weight from 5 years ago). Sure everyone is giving me the we are right here by your side, but the actions are speaking louder than words. I don't expect them to stop eating, I just expected a little more support the first week.
Sorry this is such a downer today. Maybe a little uplifting music will help. On the bright side, I feel better. My reflux has been gone for 3 days and my clothes are a little looser. It is just my heart that feels heavier today.
All of our kids have been beyond wound up for the last month, as I have complained quite a bit about on here. I have started a new low, low calorie diet that is ok, but is leaving me a little hungry here and there. My darling husband has been baking delectable treats all weekend that I can't eat. (Thanks for the support this first weekend...) The twins threw tantrums when I told them that we were all going to Mass as a family. And now I have a bit of resentment built up toward everyone after they all either ignored me or half heartedly gave me peace today during Mass.
In a fit of anger, I told them that they can just count Christmas, Easter, and their birthdays off from the gifts list. Santa and the Easter Bunny will no longer visit us. I expected tears of rage. Instead, the children laughed at me. Really? When I was a kid, I would have been spanked for that and grounded for weeks. Spanking is not allowed and grounding them in the house makes my life harder... I can't take away video games because they don't even have any! That leaves play date removal. None on the horizon. So I decided to talk to them. They said that I misunderstood. They were sorry that they did not want to go to Mass, and would do a better job.
After lunch of a delectable frittata, I convinced the family to go on a walk with me. In a very short time we covered 2 miles. The kids did not whine too much. The whole time though, I felt like my husband was just along physically. I felt like he was not counting it as exercise and just counting down the minutes until he could leave for the gym for his real exercise.
I am really disappointed in a way with the family today. I feel as though I am making a huge change in my life with no real support. It is so hard to eat this high protein, low carb diet that is also low cal when they are all eating sausages, fresh baked products, crap cereal (I have been forbidden from cereal until they figure out why I am having so much trouble losing the baby weight from 5 years ago). Sure everyone is giving me the we are right here by your side, but the actions are speaking louder than words. I don't expect them to stop eating, I just expected a little more support the first week.
Sorry this is such a downer today. Maybe a little uplifting music will help. On the bright side, I feel better. My reflux has been gone for 3 days and my clothes are a little looser. It is just my heart that feels heavier today.
21.5.11
Part II, Day 27: Another Saturday night...
Our first Saturday morning where we did not have to get up super early and drive down to Boston since September. It was a nice feeling. Not to say that we were lazy. Gregory still had a social skills class this morning. Luckily, my husband promised to bring him to the appointment. That left some quality time with my girls.
We decided to go for a walk since I need to walk a minimum of 20 minutes a day for exercise. Now, for me, 20 minutes is really nothing. So we decided to walk to my aunt's house and drop in for a visit. I am so proud of my girls. They walked 2 1/2 miles without a complaint! We had a nice time and kept a decent clip for their little legs. Needless to say, we did more than 20 minutes. I felt so jazzed after that...then the allergies started to kick up and now I feel miserable.
The most exciting part of the day was... the kids tried out a great Karate place. I have been leery about trying Karate with Gregory's Aspergers. My hubby and I are worried that he will not know or understand what is ok in the dojo is not ok in the house or the school yard. I found this place through another acquaintance who's child has the same diagnosis highly recommended this dojo to us. The kids had a wonderful time and we were so proud of them all as they earned their first belt really they just get it, but the Sensai made them "earn" it.
My husband and I were supposed to go out tonight. We've cancelled those plans to try and get my sinus issue under control. So, it seems like it is another Saturday night at the homestead...
20.5.11
Part II, Day 26: Allergies + Dance Class = Dizzy!
Today, thanks to horrible allergies, I woke up feeling as though a big truck had crushed my lungs by repeatedly rolling over me. I was in absolutely no mood to get myself out of bed, nevermind, three little ones off to school and myself to my adult jazz class. (Even the thought of dancing on chairs did not pique my interest... truly a sad state of mind I was in.)
Luckily, my husband is working from home today and had a cup of coffee waiting me as I descended the stairs. Thank God he is a morning person because he was even jovial when I begged him to rescue my Mucinex (nasal decongestant) from the back of the Mamamobile. Once the medicine was working and I was somewhat functioning, I settled into a chair and waited to wake up.
I was a bit anxious for some reason about feeling full today. I think it was because the doctor warned me that I would be starving. I wondered how one little cup of Greek yogurt with a tablespoon of chocolate peanut butter and some sliced strawberries would hold me on my exercising. When I put the concoction into my bowl though, I was so surprised. It was actually twice the amount I usually eat for breakfast - and so darn yummy!
Feeling better, I got the kids ready and we left in the rain for yet another rainy Spring day. After drop off and going to the bank for some cash, I decided to go to our local cafe for a water. I knew that I would puke if I tried to have coffee then work out for an hour. Luckily one of my mommy friends was there and we had a nice chat over her bubble tea and my water. Then we headed out for our dance class.
I am so glad that I went. We had a ball. The only problem was that the Mucinex made me dizzy with every leap and every turn. From my 1/2 marathon training days I should have remembered... I will file that in my brain box.
Luckily, my husband is working from home today and had a cup of coffee waiting me as I descended the stairs. Thank God he is a morning person because he was even jovial when I begged him to rescue my Mucinex (nasal decongestant) from the back of the Mamamobile. Once the medicine was working and I was somewhat functioning, I settled into a chair and waited to wake up.
I was a bit anxious for some reason about feeling full today. I think it was because the doctor warned me that I would be starving. I wondered how one little cup of Greek yogurt with a tablespoon of chocolate peanut butter and some sliced strawberries would hold me on my exercising. When I put the concoction into my bowl though, I was so surprised. It was actually twice the amount I usually eat for breakfast - and so darn yummy!
Feeling better, I got the kids ready and we left in the rain for yet another rainy Spring day. After drop off and going to the bank for some cash, I decided to go to our local cafe for a water. I knew that I would puke if I tried to have coffee then work out for an hour. Luckily one of my mommy friends was there and we had a nice chat over her bubble tea and my water. Then we headed out for our dance class.
I am so glad that I went. We had a ball. The only problem was that the Mucinex made me dizzy with every leap and every turn. From my 1/2 marathon training days I should have remembered... I will file that in my brain box.
19.5.11
Part II, Day 25: Nutritionist!
I was quite nervous this morning. Today was the first meeting with the nutritionist doctor. I was nervous about what she was going to tell me. I was waiting to be yelled at. Scoffed at. To be told that I was about to drop dead of some dreadful obesity related illness. Then I started filling out the paper work, and felt like I was in the wrong place. I am not a huge snacker. I am not completely out of control eater.
Instead, as I talked to the nutritionist and later the doctor, there was understanding in their eyes. Perhaps it was B.S., but I really think that they are on to something. Now I just have to figure out how to deal with eating so few calories until this is all figured out. That is kind of scary for me... it actually was not scary until I realized that I could only eat soup at the lunch place today! Though the soup was tasty, I was just trying to figure out how I am going to live on three 300 calorie meals and 3 small snacks. While trying to figure out the protein versus carbs - apples are considered carbs by this place...
Anyway, hopefully in a few months this first day jitter session will be a laugh and I will wonder what I was worried about!
Here is a remake of a classic Queen song that just seems appropriate somehow:
Instead, as I talked to the nutritionist and later the doctor, there was understanding in their eyes. Perhaps it was B.S., but I really think that they are on to something. Now I just have to figure out how to deal with eating so few calories until this is all figured out. That is kind of scary for me... it actually was not scary until I realized that I could only eat soup at the lunch place today! Though the soup was tasty, I was just trying to figure out how I am going to live on three 300 calorie meals and 3 small snacks. While trying to figure out the protein versus carbs - apples are considered carbs by this place...
Anyway, hopefully in a few months this first day jitter session will be a laugh and I will wonder what I was worried about!
Here is a remake of a classic Queen song that just seems appropriate somehow:
Part II, Day 24: Another day in...
I truly want to say another day in hell. Today can't be seen as a day in heaven. At the very best, maybe a day in purgatory. Someone once told me that children are like animals. They sense your mood and attack! Today this has been so true. My three are on some sort of brain wave that is causing them to act like little animals.
My son has been one tantrum away from throwing me over the edge of sanity. Then the girls are just fighting, fighting, fighting. I don't see any upside, I feel nauseous and just want to go to bed. Maybe that is where I will go. Early. I think I will skip dinner.
I am so annoyed. This song is now in my head as a great angst song:
My son has been one tantrum away from throwing me over the edge of sanity. Then the girls are just fighting, fighting, fighting. I don't see any upside, I feel nauseous and just want to go to bed. Maybe that is where I will go. Early. I think I will skip dinner.
I am so annoyed. This song is now in my head as a great angst song:
18.5.11
Part II, Day 23: FTO = fun day!
Today my husband took some FTO (basically, a holiday day). We were quite busy with appointments for our youngest all day, but we had time to relax and reconnect. Seems kind of sad that he has to take a day off for us to spend some time together. That said, I will take a random day of FTO over weeks of him traveling. :)
I wonder if we can just run away, plant a coconut tree and live on Rarotonga in the Cook Islands - maybe Pa's Nature Walks could use an assistant? That is really my ideal. I want to escape this thing called life and just be happy. It would not take much to be honest. I am sick of this rat race called modern life. I want to turn in my phone. I want to just be content with my family and hanging out with my friends. Is that even possible?
I remember being in university and talking about building a Utopian village. Obviously, the things I found important back then are no longer important to me - well maybe some things are. But the addition of my husband and my children really skewed what I once thought of as a perfect day. Though I still would put up a long nap and lazing around in that ideal. Isn't funny how the importance of things change as we age? If I could go back and tell my crunchy, granola university self where I would be 20 years later, I would never have believed you. I guess that is the genius of life. No one can ever predict what is going to truly happen.
So, though we were busy, saw the silver lining all day long. Now back to reality...though I am dreading it.
I wonder if we can just run away, plant a coconut tree and live on Rarotonga in the Cook Islands - maybe Pa's Nature Walks could use an assistant? That is really my ideal. I want to escape this thing called life and just be happy. It would not take much to be honest. I am sick of this rat race called modern life. I want to turn in my phone. I want to just be content with my family and hanging out with my friends. Is that even possible?
I remember being in university and talking about building a Utopian village. Obviously, the things I found important back then are no longer important to me - well maybe some things are. But the addition of my husband and my children really skewed what I once thought of as a perfect day. Though I still would put up a long nap and lazing around in that ideal. Isn't funny how the importance of things change as we age? If I could go back and tell my crunchy, granola university self where I would be 20 years later, I would never have believed you. I guess that is the genius of life. No one can ever predict what is going to truly happen.
So, though we were busy, saw the silver lining all day long. Now back to reality...though I am dreading it.
16.5.11
Part II, Day 22: Rainy Days and Mondays
Today is so gray and cold. What happened to our promised Spring? We are already past the Ides of May and not a true warm up has begun. There is even still snow piled behind the movie theater in town. This is going to be remembered as the Winter of 2011 that never ended. On the good side, our electric bill is quite low because we are not using the air conditioner.
As for the title of this post: I am not in a down mood, as is suggested by the lyrics of the classic Carpenters' hit "Rainy Days and Mondays." Rather the title of the song really sums up the day. It is rainy and it is a Monday. That said it has been a fun day filled with some fun movies.
I have had an enjoyable day with my first born (by a minute). She is home sick today. I don't really think she is 100% ill, I really just felt like she needed a day off from school. That said though, she has been in bed since we returned from the school drop off this morning four hours ago, so perhaps she really is feeling a bit blah after all. She has been so happy to just rest and has not had one idea of the million things we could/should be doing/building/baking/etc. Hopefully, her cough will subside and her energy will return.
When I started this project way back in March, I was hoping to get my creative juices flowing and continue with my writing projects. I had a break through this weekend! I have a fantastic idea that I need to hammer out, but I think that I have finally found a project that is 100% me and that will be just the thing to keep me out of trouble. Right now I have an idea and a vague sense of where I would like this story to go. When the thought flew through my brain though it was as though it were a gift from above. This is the first encouraging sign I have had in 18 months that I would ever return to the land of paper and pen (or keyboard as it really is).
I hope that your Monday is a whole lot less rainy and a whole lot more uplifting than it is here. And if you see the Spring, please send some rays of hope and sunshine my way!
As for the title of this post: I am not in a down mood, as is suggested by the lyrics of the classic Carpenters' hit "Rainy Days and Mondays." Rather the title of the song really sums up the day. It is rainy and it is a Monday. That said it has been a fun day filled with some fun movies.
I have had an enjoyable day with my first born (by a minute). She is home sick today. I don't really think she is 100% ill, I really just felt like she needed a day off from school. That said though, she has been in bed since we returned from the school drop off this morning four hours ago, so perhaps she really is feeling a bit blah after all. She has been so happy to just rest and has not had one idea of the million things we could/should be doing/building/baking/etc. Hopefully, her cough will subside and her energy will return.
When I started this project way back in March, I was hoping to get my creative juices flowing and continue with my writing projects. I had a break through this weekend! I have a fantastic idea that I need to hammer out, but I think that I have finally found a project that is 100% me and that will be just the thing to keep me out of trouble. Right now I have an idea and a vague sense of where I would like this story to go. When the thought flew through my brain though it was as though it were a gift from above. This is the first encouraging sign I have had in 18 months that I would ever return to the land of paper and pen (or keyboard as it really is).
I hope that your Monday is a whole lot less rainy and a whole lot more uplifting than it is here. And if you see the Spring, please send some rays of hope and sunshine my way!
15.5.11
Part II, Day 21: The Great Clean Out
Today was the perfect day for a great clean out as you can see in the photo above where the floor is gleaming. The kids are having a play date after school tomorrow and they house was a disaster in every room. It feels as though we are constantly cleaning and rearranging this house. I am sure when the kids are grown, I will desperately miss this activity. For now, I am sick of stepping on Hello Kittys, Yodas, and random Lego pieces. I was actually tempted today to pitch all the Barbies and extraneous super heroes in a bin liner. My kids wailed a resounding, "No." As a compromise, they cleaned or I threatened to fill my white plastic bag with an assortment of crap from their floors and the floor of the playroom.
After initially trying to play and call that cleaning, we had an understanding. I kept shaking my bag with glee. They worked a little harder. At the end of the afternoon, the house was mostly back in order. There is no way that I can finish this entire endeavour today. Really, that would require a back hoe and some landfill, but at least it will not be an embarrassment to open our home tomorrow afternoon to our new friends.
For some reason, this song by Tracy Byrd has been in my head all afternoon. Something today reminded me of when I lived in DC. I have no idea what that could be because I was definitely not sorting through children's toys at that point in my life. Since it is on eternal repeat, I share it with you:
Part II, Day 20: Night sans Kidlets
As a surprise, my godparents called to take the three children OVERnight. To say that I was jumping for joy, is an understatement. We have not had a night to ourselves since September 2010. It is now May 2011. You can do the math.
At first we did not know what to do last night, but quickly followed spontaneity. First we tried a new Thai restaurant in our town, then as we were driving by the movie theater, we decided to go and see "Bridesmaids." I was not sure what to expect, what I heard and saw were definitely not what I would have expected.
Later as my husband and I were discussing the raunchy movie, I told him it felt like every thought a woman ever had said out loud. Though this movie is not at all kid friendly, I have not laughed so hard in years. Tears were running down my cheeks and I fears that I would pee myself. Thankfully, no pants were ruined! LOL.
Here is an important song from the movie:
Part II, Day 19: Blogger still down
On Friday, blogger was still down! I could not access the posting portal at all...
11.5.11
Part II, Day 17: Trampled by a dinosaur
Today, I awoke with such a refreshment and such a joie de vivre... that hallucination lasted a mere 42 minutes and I wish that I could go back and repossess my day so that I will be able relive the day.
Is there a rewind button on life? Because quite honestly, I want to rewind and a re-do. My son has Aspergers and his day was set upside down by a field trip from the Pre-K building to the "big" school and the library. He was with his teachers and friends (and yours truly as one of the chaperones). In addition, he visited the librarian who currently comes down to his school to read books.
Let me back up just a smidge, the day started out with him not wanting to get dressed. I should have known from that moment that we would jump off an emotional cliff that would end with me in a comatos like state staring at this computer and willing my husband to walk through the door. Right now they are upstairs having bath time, but I digress.
After a bit of a wrestling match to get the boy dressed, there was an argument over the cereal type I had decided to give this morning. I changed bowls and thought the rest of the morning would smooth out. This part of the morning was the happy part.
My girls were reading the morning prayers and as luck happened it was raining. I thought this would be great. No school yard to set of the son's sensory issues. Waiting in the hall was a million times worse. I was head butted, feet stomped on, and an umbrella weilded at my head. Finally, I decided to take him out and miss the girls' recitations. Luckily, my mother was along to be a face to beam at the granddaughters.
When we finally reached the street, I was bitten repeatedly for the crime of removing the umbrella that was hitting me. I was punched, kicked and called a variety of names. I managed to keep it somewhat together and stoically walk Gregory the block to his building. Then I quickly deposited him with his teacher with a terse, "Good luck. It's been a bad morning." Then as the door swooshed close behind me a father asked me, "Having a good morning?" I answered, "No, actually." Then I promptly burst into tears and blathered to another friend and took off back to the big school where I saw one of my best friends, but could not even talk to her because I was crying too much.
The teacher had asked me to be a chaperone as I was leaving because she was worried aobut him. So after a quick breakfast, I returned to the school with a heavy heart and reluctance. Gregory seemed fine with the walk to the library and the actual time in the library. Then we had a surprise visit to his classroom next fall. Dear Lord above, you would have thought they were caning him. He refused to try out a desk and when asked his favorite part he said, "I'm nervous about Kindergarten." Then he and I bolted into the cafeteria because he was mess.
On the walk back to his classroom, he seemed fine. Then as a treat I took him to see "Rio." They were having a sensory friendly showing at a local theater. So we enjoyed the movie with lunch and I thought the day was back on track. From pick up until now it has been one thing after another and right now my world is black and I see no upside. So feeling trampled by a dinosaur right now, reminded me of this song:
Is there a rewind button on life? Because quite honestly, I want to rewind and a re-do. My son has Aspergers and his day was set upside down by a field trip from the Pre-K building to the "big" school and the library. He was with his teachers and friends (and yours truly as one of the chaperones). In addition, he visited the librarian who currently comes down to his school to read books.
Let me back up just a smidge, the day started out with him not wanting to get dressed. I should have known from that moment that we would jump off an emotional cliff that would end with me in a comatos like state staring at this computer and willing my husband to walk through the door. Right now they are upstairs having bath time, but I digress.
After a bit of a wrestling match to get the boy dressed, there was an argument over the cereal type I had decided to give this morning. I changed bowls and thought the rest of the morning would smooth out. This part of the morning was the happy part.
My girls were reading the morning prayers and as luck happened it was raining. I thought this would be great. No school yard to set of the son's sensory issues. Waiting in the hall was a million times worse. I was head butted, feet stomped on, and an umbrella weilded at my head. Finally, I decided to take him out and miss the girls' recitations. Luckily, my mother was along to be a face to beam at the granddaughters.
When we finally reached the street, I was bitten repeatedly for the crime of removing the umbrella that was hitting me. I was punched, kicked and called a variety of names. I managed to keep it somewhat together and stoically walk Gregory the block to his building. Then I quickly deposited him with his teacher with a terse, "Good luck. It's been a bad morning." Then as the door swooshed close behind me a father asked me, "Having a good morning?" I answered, "No, actually." Then I promptly burst into tears and blathered to another friend and took off back to the big school where I saw one of my best friends, but could not even talk to her because I was crying too much.
The teacher had asked me to be a chaperone as I was leaving because she was worried aobut him. So after a quick breakfast, I returned to the school with a heavy heart and reluctance. Gregory seemed fine with the walk to the library and the actual time in the library. Then we had a surprise visit to his classroom next fall. Dear Lord above, you would have thought they were caning him. He refused to try out a desk and when asked his favorite part he said, "I'm nervous about Kindergarten." Then he and I bolted into the cafeteria because he was mess.
On the walk back to his classroom, he seemed fine. Then as a treat I took him to see "Rio." They were having a sensory friendly showing at a local theater. So we enjoyed the movie with lunch and I thought the day was back on track. From pick up until now it has been one thing after another and right now my world is black and I see no upside. So feeling trampled by a dinosaur right now, reminded me of this song:
Part II, Day 16: A Bully's A Bully
Today was a crazy day. If it were a Monday, I would say it is a Manic Monday, as it is though, it is a manic Tuesday. Maybe I can be all superior about it and deem today a Monday and then the Bangles song will be valid?
The day started out ok enough, but by noon was already in a crazy mixed up state. I started out the day late. Not because of my own tardiness, but rather the tardiness of three little munchkins. I hate being late. Did I mention that I hate being late. That just set the rest of the day.
Between school hysteria over a new policy that is being debated by parents, though we seem to have no say in the situation... the kids refusal to do homework, and then running between three meetings at the same time, I was frazzled by the time I ate dinner at 10 pm!!!
As for the title of this post? One of the three meetings was a Bully Prevention meeting at the kids' school. People are so mad about another issue that they boycotted it. So representing 300 families? A mere 13 families. It was embarrassing to say the least.
Here is to deeming any manic day at Manic Monday!
The day started out ok enough, but by noon was already in a crazy mixed up state. I started out the day late. Not because of my own tardiness, but rather the tardiness of three little munchkins. I hate being late. Did I mention that I hate being late. That just set the rest of the day.
Between school hysteria over a new policy that is being debated by parents, though we seem to have no say in the situation... the kids refusal to do homework, and then running between three meetings at the same time, I was frazzled by the time I ate dinner at 10 pm!!!
As for the title of this post? One of the three meetings was a Bully Prevention meeting at the kids' school. People are so mad about another issue that they boycotted it. So representing 300 families? A mere 13 families. It was embarrassing to say the least.
Here is to deeming any manic day at Manic Monday!
9.5.11
Part II, Day 15: Lasagna - A Hug for the Soul
Today was a day of remembering my grandmother. The other night I had made a dish that we call Turkish Pasta. We had it on our mini-moon (the honeymoon for our civil marriage) in Konstanz, Germany. It was a simple pasta dish and for some reason I was craving it the other night. In the process of making that dish, I had inadvertently made way too much meat sauce, so I put the rest in the fridge and had the brilliant idea to turn the sauce into the basis of a lasagna of sorts.
I could just hear my grandmother now scolding me for changing the family recipe. She would have taken it as an affront to generations of lasagna making and would have claimed that it was not fit to be called lasagna.
As usual, my kids all turned their noses up at the creation, but my husband and I loved it! We actually ate all 5 servings (and are now regretting our greed). This meat sauce is so yummy that I think that I will need write down what I put in it because this was not cooking with a recipe cooking. This was cooking from memory and taste. This is the cooking I was taught with. I am religious about following new recipes to the t. Then I take whatever culinary liberties that I would like to take. In the process most meals have my stamp on them. This was just plain old good food. A warm hug from the inside that leaves you feeling all gooey and comforted.
Hopefully, you have a meal this week that hugs you like that too.
8.5.11
Part II, Day 14: The Mother of All Days
Today is Mother's Day. I have to admit, that I woke up in a crabby mood and that I was not at all festive. My family gave me a wonderful morning: breakfast in bed with homemade sticky buns and a loungy chair for the garden (something I have been wanting for 6 years!).
But something was bothering me and has been bothering me for weeks. I can't figure out exactily what it is, but hope that the cloud will be lifted and that I can just feel free-er. (Is that even a term? Well, it is now.)
I need to detox my life and just start being. Something I could do very easily in my 20s, but find difficult at the end of my 30s. Perhaps a move would change things up for me? Perhaps I need to refocus my life. Perhaps I just need to let criticism hang in the air and not bow down to its tentacles. Perhaps I just need to stop thinking.
Anyway, here is a little song in honor of all mothers out there:
But something was bothering me and has been bothering me for weeks. I can't figure out exactily what it is, but hope that the cloud will be lifted and that I can just feel free-er. (Is that even a term? Well, it is now.)
I need to detox my life and just start being. Something I could do very easily in my 20s, but find difficult at the end of my 30s. Perhaps a move would change things up for me? Perhaps I need to refocus my life. Perhaps I just need to let criticism hang in the air and not bow down to its tentacles. Perhaps I just need to stop thinking.
Anyway, here is a little song in honor of all mothers out there:
Part II, Day 13: Last day of German Saturday School!!!!
Today was quite a milestone in the year of our family! The last day of classes for Saturday German School until next year. We still must attend the closing party next Saturday. But that is a fun day! The kids perform and receive any diplomas they may have earned. Then the entire family is treated to bratwurst and cake.
Many families seem to skip this festivity every year, but they are totally wrong to do so. The day really is a joy and it is nice to wrap up the whole year with a fun activity for which the kids work so hard preparing.
We also were able to visit with a dear friend who is on holiday from the UK. Her family is old family friends from my father-in-law's university days. The kids are all now grown (My husband and this woman) and we have been hanging out for years. Though since we have had the children, much less often.
It was great to get together with her and just enjoy her company. It makes me wish that she still lived here in the US. Perhaps we will move back to Europe and then we can be closer. One never does know.
So today's happy points are: finishing the year's course for my children and visiting with a dear friend.
Many families seem to skip this festivity every year, but they are totally wrong to do so. The day really is a joy and it is nice to wrap up the whole year with a fun activity for which the kids work so hard preparing.
We also were able to visit with a dear friend who is on holiday from the UK. Her family is old family friends from my father-in-law's university days. The kids are all now grown (My husband and this woman) and we have been hanging out for years. Though since we have had the children, much less often.
It was great to get together with her and just enjoy her company. It makes me wish that she still lived here in the US. Perhaps we will move back to Europe and then we can be closer. One never does know.
So today's happy points are: finishing the year's course for my children and visiting with a dear friend.
Part II, Day 12: Attack of the School Uniforms
Today was the annual school uniform swap and yours truely was in charge of the whole schebang. It was quite a feat that was thankfully aided by some great friends who stepped up to help me and my co-chair.
Who knew that jumpers, skirts, trousers, and shorts could cause such a foray into madness! It is amazing how much we all saved by not buying brand new uniforms for next year. We deduced that the dresses are made of the most indestructible material ever invented.
I am so excited that kids are kitted out for the next school year. Most importantly, I am absolutely elated that the swap is completed! What a huge undertaking. I will not be running this baby next year...
Who knew that jumpers, skirts, trousers, and shorts could cause such a foray into madness! It is amazing how much we all saved by not buying brand new uniforms for next year. We deduced that the dresses are made of the most indestructible material ever invented.
I am so excited that kids are kitted out for the next school year. Most importantly, I am absolutely elated that the swap is completed! What a huge undertaking. I will not be running this baby next year...
5.5.11
Part II, Day 11: Cinco de mayo
Today is el cinco de mayo. Some say it is a big cause for celebration. I think it is just a cause for celebration. Know what I mean? But sometimes do you need a reason to celebrate. Sometimes just hanging out with friends is all that you need.
It was a strange, exhilirating day. I just returned from the Guild meeting for my children's school. We all had to pick two events to co-host next year. This year, I did one small event and one larger than life event. I am done with larger than life events. So I cheesed out and chose two small events. Santa Fotos at the Christmas Fair and the snacks for the Guild Installation. Should be a piece of cake and maybe, just maybe I will cook for them all. :) We shall see what I feel like next year.
Anyway, not a crazy fun day, but a nice day nonetheless.
It was a strange, exhilirating day. I just returned from the Guild meeting for my children's school. We all had to pick two events to co-host next year. This year, I did one small event and one larger than life event. I am done with larger than life events. So I cheesed out and chose two small events. Santa Fotos at the Christmas Fair and the snacks for the Guild Installation. Should be a piece of cake and maybe, just maybe I will cook for them all. :) We shall see what I feel like next year.
Anyway, not a crazy fun day, but a nice day nonetheless.
4.5.11
Part II, Day 10: Blah!
Today is a blah day! It could be the rain. Everything seems gray and half full. I hate when I have these days. Well, at least tomorrow should be better. It has to be, right?
Part II, Day 9: Back in the Saddle
Today was truly a step back in time. I taught for the first time in seven years. Literally, seven years. See seven years ago this week, I was placed on bed rest during my pregnancy with the twins. So when my children's school called to tell me the Spanish teacher was away and asked if I would like to help out, I said yes.
It was exciting to be back in the classroom and I totally want this job should it ever come to pass that the teacher retires! Her schedule is the cushiest schedule in the entire world: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 12:20-2:20. Yep, you read that correctly. Four days a week for two hours. A total of three classes per day with three very light preps. From what I can understand no to little homework and preps easier than I have ever had.
I was nervous about teaching the middle school level since I had not taught that level EVER. I started out teaching at UCLA as part of my fellowship for the doctoral program (I did not finish because my professor, who was the only expert in my field left the university and never returned). Then I taught at some community colleges. Then I was at an all girls' high school for a while. Then a stay at home mom driving my husband insane with my endless projects. Though I think he enjoys my enthusiasm and drive. :)
It was fantastic to be speaking Spanish again for long chunks and I realized that I still have the teaching thing. The kids were enthusiastic. We did their exercises so quickly and it was so much fun. Though those poor seventh graders had to endure six listening comprehensions via CD for 35 minutes! I was bored to tears, I can only imagine how they felt.
I spoke with the French and Chinese teachers later (All the language teachers share an office) and they were shocked when I told them that I had a ball. The French teacher told me that it has not be fun for her for years. That is a little sad. Teaching was always fun for me. I hated the correcting, but loved the students and loved seeing their eyes open with excitement to learn a new lesson. Let's see if this substitute gig ever pans out.
Oh, and my first grade daughters informed me that they could hear me downstairs. Still a loud teacher... gotta love booming Spanish in the quiet school. Those kids had so much fun!!
Anyway, I will report on my second day. Today truly brought me happiness!
It was exciting to be back in the classroom and I totally want this job should it ever come to pass that the teacher retires! Her schedule is the cushiest schedule in the entire world: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 12:20-2:20. Yep, you read that correctly. Four days a week for two hours. A total of three classes per day with three very light preps. From what I can understand no to little homework and preps easier than I have ever had.
I was nervous about teaching the middle school level since I had not taught that level EVER. I started out teaching at UCLA as part of my fellowship for the doctoral program (I did not finish because my professor, who was the only expert in my field left the university and never returned). Then I taught at some community colleges. Then I was at an all girls' high school for a while. Then a stay at home mom driving my husband insane with my endless projects. Though I think he enjoys my enthusiasm and drive. :)
It was fantastic to be speaking Spanish again for long chunks and I realized that I still have the teaching thing. The kids were enthusiastic. We did their exercises so quickly and it was so much fun. Though those poor seventh graders had to endure six listening comprehensions via CD for 35 minutes! I was bored to tears, I can only imagine how they felt.
I spoke with the French and Chinese teachers later (All the language teachers share an office) and they were shocked when I told them that I had a ball. The French teacher told me that it has not be fun for her for years. That is a little sad. Teaching was always fun for me. I hated the correcting, but loved the students and loved seeing their eyes open with excitement to learn a new lesson. Let's see if this substitute gig ever pans out.
Oh, and my first grade daughters informed me that they could hear me downstairs. Still a loud teacher... gotta love booming Spanish in the quiet school. Those kids had so much fun!!
Anyway, I will report on my second day. Today truly brought me happiness!
2.5.11
Part II, Day 8: Belly Dancing!
In my quest to get fit and happy (as well as, healthy) I had enrolled in Boot Camp. This idea was such a great idea and had such wonderful potential. 5 weeks of hell for a life recovered. However, day dreams and reality are often not well aligned. This was the case with Boot Camp. All the best intentions have left me a Boot Camp drop out - for a second time.
Part of me feels guilty because I was really committed to this, but part of me is relieved because I was so anxious and stressed about finding a babysitter. It was going to cost a lot of money for the five weeks, but we were willing to do so for my fitness.
So, undeterred to figure out my own boot camp, at my pace, I devised this program:
exercise classes at my gym three times a week and find a nutritionist who is backed by a doctor.
Today was the beginning of this new odyssey here in my life. I convinced my Boot Camp buddy to join me at the first day of this new regimen. We decided to try the Belly Dance class. It sounded fun and we figured with all the hip shaking, it had to be a good workout. I was so sweaty when we ended, but it was so, so much fun!! We shimmied, we shook, we laughed and we had an intense workout! Now we just have to figure out Wednesday adventure. For now Fridays will remain Adult Jazz.
As for the nutritionist, I have an appointment on May 19th. I can't wait to hear what they have to say. :)
In the meantime, the dancing in this song reminds me of today's class:
Part of me feels guilty because I was really committed to this, but part of me is relieved because I was so anxious and stressed about finding a babysitter. It was going to cost a lot of money for the five weeks, but we were willing to do so for my fitness.
So, undeterred to figure out my own boot camp, at my pace, I devised this program:
exercise classes at my gym three times a week and find a nutritionist who is backed by a doctor.
Today was the beginning of this new odyssey here in my life. I convinced my Boot Camp buddy to join me at the first day of this new regimen. We decided to try the Belly Dance class. It sounded fun and we figured with all the hip shaking, it had to be a good workout. I was so sweaty when we ended, but it was so, so much fun!! We shimmied, we shook, we laughed and we had an intense workout! Now we just have to figure out Wednesday adventure. For now Fridays will remain Adult Jazz.
As for the nutritionist, I have an appointment on May 19th. I can't wait to hear what they have to say. :)
In the meantime, the dancing in this song reminds me of today's class:
Part II, Day 7: Gardening to Happiness
Today was a fantabulous day - my own word, I admit, but so much more than fantastic and fabulous! :)
My daughters slept over at Grammie and Grampy's house so we had our son with us. The boys decided to let me sleep in to the late hour of 7:45 am and then when I tried to go downstairs, I was shooed back upstairs! So I was forced to hang out in bed, listening to some of my favorite 80s music on the TV music channel while sipping coffee. Then they made homemade scones and we had breakfast in bed. It was not a special day, but I felt so special.
After lolling about until 10 am, we finally got our rears in motion and went shopping for new trash containers for the curbside pick up, mulch for the garden and leaf picker upper thingies for the garden. Then we went to a gardener's bliss...
There is a gardening store near us that has row upon row of gorgeous plants and trees and flowers and what not. The whole thing is the size of a soccer field. I am not an avid gardener, but I love going to this place and seeing potential and day dreaming. We walked every aisle and could not decide what to purchase for our yard, so we decided to have lunch at the farmer's market that was at the end of the tree aisle. We discovered some amazing vendors: the best jam I have ever had and I have had jam all over the place, an organic spice purveyor, an all natural butcher with a farm close by, and a nice sense of community. We will definitely go back there!
After our delightful lunch, we finally made decisions: a magnolia tree, a self-pollinating peach tree, a pussy willow tree, a forsynthia bush, and poppies, pansies, English daisies and an artichoke. The yard is already looking a little better.
The gardening was hard work, but it will be great! So, if you are looking for a new hobby that is a good workout, let me suggest some gardening!
1.5.11
Part II, Day 6: Minus two kids
Tonight my mother called and asked if the twins could stay over and would I mind? Would I mind? Please take the little ones from me. Still not feeling 100% and a little break will do me some good. Now to convince the hubby to take the little man to dinner. I am sure that will not be a hard sell since the two of them have very little time alone together now that all three are in German school on Saturdays.
Part II, Day 5: Fever hits home
Today I was down and out for the count. Fever, sluggish, not a bit to report. Just lots of driving and trying to stay awake. Hopefully, tomorrow will be better!!
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