I am totally amusing myself with today's blog. I haven't written consistently in a very long time. So sporadic through 2018 and I'm a bit embarrassed that this will only be my 32nd post this year. In my heyday, I never missed my pattern of every other day and easily wrote upwards of 130 to 160 posts a year. I can't start something and not see it thru. And my end of the year wrap up post follows a very consistent formula on how I like to end the year. Even when I don't feel like writing and am not inspired, I still need to do my ending post. I find it very fascinating what I obsess over and what I could care less about.
This past year was a huge one for us. Ian reached the milestone in the Jewish religion that every kid and their parents stress over and get anxious and excited about all at the same time. Ian became a Bar Mitzvah in May. He did an amazing job and made Jeff and I very proud. If I have to give one highlight to 2018, this undoubtedly is it.
I am constantly in awe that I am a mother to a 10 year old and a 13 year old. There is so much more they can do for themselves. One of the better milestones we get to experience is that a babysitter is no longer needed; even when we go out at night. It's not like Jeff and I are always on a date night -- far from it -- but the few times we did have evening plans that did not include the kids, we were comfortable to leave them home alone. Given that we do not have family close by to babysit, hiring a babysitter gets very costly.
Another year has flown by and I hope I've done a better job of keeping up with the hustle and bustle of our lives. Ian pretty much handles his social life now and I just check in with the various parents to make sure they are aware of what the boys are planning. I never thought I'd be "that" parent who questions and monitors everything, but somehow I've become her. It's true what they say, you shouldn't be your kid's best friend; you need to be a parent first and foremost.
Travel this year:
March: Weekend in Pennsylvania for Alexa and Lia's B'nei Mitzvah
March: Niagara Falls (Canada side) and Pittsburgh for 5 days
April: Susanne and I took the boys to NY for the day for Sam's Bar Mitzvah party
May: Robyn in Orlando for 4 days for Meghan's graduation from College
June: Pennsylvania for the day for Uncle Bernard's party
June -July: Ian and Sam in Orlando for 15 days
July: Jeff and Robyn overnight in Pennsylvania for Chelsea's party.
July- August: Both kids at Camp Ramah for 27 days
August: Robyn in MA and VT for 2 days
September: Ian in Nofolk for the weekend for Elijah's Bar Mitzvah
September: Robyn in Orlando for 5 days
November: Ian and Robyn in Pennsylvania and NYC for the weekend for Jonah's Bar Mitzvah
November: Week in Myrtle Beach for Thanksgiving
I always think that we do very little traveling and while it's true we are gone hardly ever for more than 2 or 3 days at a time, and rarely as a family, we do manage to get out of town if all it requires is a road trip. Most of our reasons for getting anywhere in 2018 involved an invitation of some sort and us accepting.
One of our most favorite trips was to Niagara Falls. We went during the kids' spring break and unfortunately some of the stuff we would do wasn't operating yet for the season, but it mattered very little as we had a great time. Looking at the Falls never gets old.
This year I spent only 1 day in NYC and saw two shows: Summer (based on Donna Summer's life) and The Other Josh Cohen. Both were very enjoyable and it made for a very fun and long day in the Big Apple.
We also did not make it to the beach this past Summer. It was just too much on top of the Bar Mitzvah and something had to give. So far its looking promising that we will be able to return to OC, NJ with my cousin and her family this Summer.
Ian began his 2nd year of middle school with no struggles and instantly found himself asking a girl out on a date and getting cast the staring role of the school play, "Rock of Ages". What an exciting time for him. The relationship with the girl never went beyond the first date, but he can now say he's done it and it did go well. However, they decided it would be better to be friends.
Samantha is having a much better time with her studies in 5th grade. The right teacher is everything! Samantha's teacher this year is new to the school and has been fantastic working with Samantha. We do plan to schedule testing with a reading specialist to see if Samantha has something specific that can be diagnosed rather than waiting for her to fall below grade level before the school system will intervene. Horseback riding is still at the top of Sam's list of activities she enjoys. In a most wonderful turn of events, Sam decided to register with Ian's drama group through George Mason University and also do acting. If you ask me, this is where Sam is truly going to shine. The girl can be so dramatic and just needs the right vehicle to let it go free.
I have to say, I am most looking forward to the time I will have with Jeff from 1:30pm to 5:00pm every Saturday from February to June while the kids are at their drama program together. He has plans for us to go grocery shopping or to Costco or wash/vacuum the cars, or clean the house. While I have plans for us to have a late lunch, or early dinner or go to a movie if the timing works out. Ha! Maybe we can compromise and take turns checking off items on each of our lists.
My job at the preschool is still going great. The women I work with are truly wonderful and so much fun to be around. And in the best update I have from the beginning of 2018, I am most pleased to write that I no longer work for the Crazy Man. It was perfect timing to walk away when he moved to Chevy Chase, MD to live in a retirement community. I do talk to him from time to time and enjoy his stories a lot more now on how he is driving others bonkers. I've continued my 5:30am workouts 3x a week. The camaraderie I have with this group of women who show up at 5:30am is very special. They make it worth it to drag myself out of bed on those cold mornings.
Jeff's job continues to give him opportunities to shine on some of their most challenging projects. He enjoys his work, comes home at a reasonable hour (most of the time) and is in a great mood. There is little more you can ask out of a job.
One of the most surprising developments of 2018 is Jeff's desire to cook and bake. Each week Jeff takes the time to research new and interesting recipes and cooks us dinner on Saturday night, complete with a dessert. The kids and I are pleased to report that the vast majority of dishes he attempts are winners and yummy! Jeff now makes homemade pasta! Really.
Lucy is still a key member of Team Toppall. She remains as sweet as ever and loves to cuddle with all of us. She has her routine of when she will jump in bed with Jeff and me (somehow she knows when it is 4:30am!) and loves to put herself to bed each night in Ian's bed. Sam's big thing is to snuggle with her on the couch. Lucy loves us all very much and we can not get enough of her. I am pretty sure if we could be guaranteed a dog as sweet and amazing as Lucy is, Jeff would be the ring leader in bringing home another rescue.
The year ahead in 2019:
I realized as I was writing this that I surround myself with amazing women. From working out, to working at the preschool, to friends I have from the MOMs group I was in from way back, to friends from the preschool years, to friends I have in Orlando, and other friends I have met along the way, I am most fortunate. I feel so blessed to have these women in my life and look forward to my time I spend with them. They make the dark days brighter and give me many reasons to smile. I am fond of saying, it takes a village, and my village is full of the most awesome people ever. I can't think of a single one who I wouldn't answer the phone for in the middle of night and go help them or know they would do the same for me. As 2019 gets underway, I look forward to continuing to grow these friendships.
Ian and Sam are registered for their usual month-long stay at camp this Summer and I am hoping that Jeff and I are able to spend a week to go somewhere. Fingers are crossed that we can make this work.
I am enjoying my time in the afternoons not having to do my 2nd part-time job that day. Its amazing how much the day feels less hectic not having to run around every single minute from job to job to activity to activity. In 2019, I hope to build in more walks with Lucy during these afternoons, getting fresh air and giving us both a chance to stretch our legs. There is no reason I should not be able to do this. I am hoping by writing this, I will be held accountable.
My new thing for Fridays (my free day from preschool) is to go the movies. By myself! Sometimes I get friends to join me, but if its not possible, I will go on my own during the late morning and before the kids get home from school. I am definitely keeping this up in 2019. Going to the movies has to be one of my most favorite things to do.
My New Year's Wish:
I wish for all of us to be compassionate and less judgy. Give someone a hug if it looks like they need it, lend an ear if someone needs to be talk. I have found most people just want to be heard. May 2019 bring us all happiness, many reasons to laugh, and good health. Happy New Year!
Showing posts with label update. Show all posts
Showing posts with label update. Show all posts
Monday, December 31, 2018
Sunday, December 31, 2017
End of the Year Wrap-up: 2017 Edition
I find myself getting more nostalgic as the years go by. Maybe its because I recently spent more than a few hours putting together a slide show for Ian's Bar Mitzvah and it gave me the opportunity to pour over thousands of photos. It's really hard for me to remember the kids at 2 years, 5 years, 6 years of age, even sometimes just last year. I mean, I know I lived it and was here for every single second right next to their side, but it all quickly becomes a blur as one season melts into another.
Each new stage we enter seems like the best one to be in. The kids can now stay home on their own. They can get themselves breakfast, pack lunch for school, put away their laundry and many more milestones. Sometimes Jeff and I are around just to handle logistics and get them from one activity to the next. One of the coolest things is to have conversations with them and hear their ideas and what they are thinking. Seeing life through our kids' eyes is a beautiful thing.
And so we find ourselves, whether we are ready or not, to say good-bye to 2017 and hello to 2018. When I was a little girl, the year 2018 seemed so, so far away. And now, it's just a few hours away. Again, I'm getting nostalgic for a time when life seemed so much simpler and our children's issues were much easier to deal with. (Caveat: Samantha's pooping problems was never easy and caused much angst for years.)
Travel this year:
February: Ian spent a weekend at Capital Camps
April: Kids with Jeff's parents for 2.5 days.
April: Virginia Beach for 2 days
April: Orlando for 4 days (Samantha and me)
May: Ian in Orlando for 4 days
June: Jeff in England and France for 9 days
June: New York City for 3 days
July: Kids go to Orlando for 12 days (Jeff is there for 4 days, Robyn is there for 7 days)
July: Ocean City, NJ week at the beach
July - August: Both kids at Camp Ramah for 27 days
August: Jeff and Robyn in NYC for 2 days
November: Week in Orlando for Thanksgiving
December: New York City for 2 days (me and the kids with Susanne, Anna and their 6 kids)
December: Pennsylvania for 4 days (me and Samantha for 2 days, Ian the whole time)
Two things stand out looking at this list: 1. I didn't take one trip by myself in all of 2017. And, 2. There was no girl's weekend. None, Zip, Zilch. What's up with that???
With that said, I was so pleased that Jeff went to Europe. He very rarely does anything for himself. And this trip was for purely social reasons. He had a great time and it was good for him to go. So if someone was able to get a girl's weekend in, I am glad it was him. :)
I am also so incredibly delighted we managed 3 (yes 3!!) trips to NYC this year. It is truly a favorite city of mine and the kids; maybe even Jeff's too as he more than "tolerates" it and seems to enjoy himself. Or, maybe he is just happy seeing me and the kids enjoy it so much. Either way, each trip is very memorable and unique in its own way. A true highlight this year was making "Hamilton" happen. The love of theatre is a spark that is growing in both kids. I couldn't be prouder. Singing show tunes with the kids in the car always puts a smile on my face. Getting to see the performance come alive on stage is priceless. Ian and I saw "Chicago" and "In the Heights" this year. As a family we saw "Hamilton" and "Kinky Boots". The kids and I saw "School of Rock". Jeff and I saw "On Your Feet", "Avenue Q", "The Great Comet"and "The Book of Mormon". Lastly, I saw "Mean Girls" with friends. All this year. I'd say that's a pretty darn good year seeing musicals.
And, the icing on the cake is making the week at the beach happen again this past Summer. It is a truly wonderful memory we make with the kids and our extended family. There is nothing like it. It's good, old fashioned fun, where we slow down the clock and simply enjoy being at the ocean and all that it involves.
Ian has finally found his groove at Middle School. It was a bigger transition than any of us expected. He has a great group of friends (all good kids..I've made certain) and I am not so worried about him as much anymore with regards to school. Ian stays on top of his assignments and needs very little hand holding getting his homework done. Additionally, he is studying incredibly hard for his Bar Mitzvah (it's in MAY!!), and I know he will do his father and I very proud. I am delighted with how serious he takes his work. Drama is his extracurricular activity of choice. It's always so much fun seeing him on stage and having a blast acting.
Samantha is being very challenged in the 4th grade. Jeff and I spend most of time worrying for her and how hard school is, not to mention how much she hates doing homework. We've got the school making accommodations (paper tests/ not computerized, strategic seating, having a text book at home, and tutoring 2x a week), but its a constant amount of energy expended making sure Samantha is understanding everything and nothing slips through the cracks. The best news is that I don't have to convince the world that 6x7 is 56. We can all continue knowing it is 42. For a few days there I thought it would be easier to get the whole world on board with 6x7 = 56 than Samantha believing 6x7 =42. Everyone can breathe a sigh of relief, we are good. Sam's extracurricular activity of choice is horseback riding. She really loves it and I love watching her enjoy something that doesn't make any demands to learn, memorize or read something. There is a very sweet side of Samantha that I absolutely love and adore. Each morning I wake-up and say a little prayer this sweet Samantha will be the one that wakes-up too. My prediction about Samantha's future?: She will run a big company and be very successful at it. Her fierce personality will do her justice later in life. In a bit of surprising news, the other day Samantha dropped in conversation something about her college dorm room. Jeff and I looked at each other and all I could say was, "You know what I got out of that sentence? That Samantha sees herself in college." That was literally the first time ever Sam spoke of her future and have it include another 4 years getting a degree. Obviously Jeff and I were both delighted.
Jeff had a great year at work and continues to enjoy his job. He is always quick to help me when I've scheduled myself in 2 or 3 places at the same time. I really appreciate that more than anything.
Lucy has been with us for more than a year now! It feels like she has always been in our family. All of us (including Jeff) have their special thing with Lucy. Lucy sleeps with Ian in his bed every night. She comes into my bed at 5:00am most mornings to snuggle with me before I have to get up for my day. She helps wake-up Sam each morning before school. And she loves to lay next to Jeff at the end of the day and rest her head on his leg. Lucy is incredibly sweet. Other than being dog aggressive to dogs on leashes, she is perfect!
Last but not least, me. Another year of being on the go. Although I will say, I haven't scheduled us as much as I used to. I did an awesome job continuing to exercise at 5:30am and love the group of women I get to work out with. Another thing I am happy about was taking the time to schedule lunch with my girlfriends throughout the year. I didn't let 'life' get in the way. Spending time with my friends is like chicken soup for the soul. I am still dealing with weight issues...I lose, I gain, I lose, I gain, I lose some more. It is what it is and I am no longer trying to analyze it. I am back on my losing streak...hello! I have Bar Mitzvah pictures to be in in 132 days and I'll be damned if I have 2 chins doing it.
Also, this was the year that I binged watch many awesome shows. Wow! There is some really amazing original programs being created by Netflix and Amazon. Most of it is much better than what's on regular tv. Although, I will always have a place in my heart for "General Hospital" and "This Is Us".
Somehow I also found time to read. Since April 1st, I've read 25 books. I am most impressed with this number. 20 books since July! I think its been years since I read this much in such a short amount of time. Definitely before having kids.
The Year ahead in 2018:
I can't even think beyond Ian's Bar Mitzvah. The very idea that he is going to be 13 and be a Bar Mitzvah is mind blowing to me. I have very little else on the horizon and very much look forward to this one event more than anything else this coming year.
But if I had to take a moment and outline some other things I am looking forward to: My sister Meghan is graduating college!! This is huge and something we've been waiting for quite a long time. She is actually graduating a week before Ian's Bar Mitzvah, so the month of May is very important for our family.
We have both kids registered for a month of camp this Summer. Yay! I am not sure if our week at the beach will happen again this Summer. Money is quite tight and I've had to make some compromises. It would take a lot for Jeff to be ok with us booking a house, but stranger things have happened in the past, so we will see. I never count anything out until the very end.
A New Year's Resolution I have is to say "No". No to shopping, no to eating out, no to being on Amazon, no to going on spontaneous trips, no to planning vacations or weekend getaways, no to multiple trips to Orlando (other than Meghan's graduation of course!). Just no. I feel like if I put it out there in the universe, it could actually happen or come as close as I'll ever get.
I'm also going to try hard to keep my mouth shut more. Most of the time I feel like I talk way too much and half of it is probably not even necessary. I hate walking away from a conversation feeling like a dork because of something I said. No more! I'm going to stay quiet. :)
And, last but not least, I am on a major clean-out of my email inbox. I am saying buh-bye to a countless number of opted-in email newsletters/discounts/promotions/whatever from everyone under the sun (from The Washington Post to Tires.com to Hanes.com to Specialious.com and many, many more). I must instantly delete up to 90 spam emails a day without even looking at them. No more. I am opting out of EVERYTHING!
My New Year's Wish:
I always tell Ian as he heads out the door, "Make good choices." I think this is wise for all of us. Let's make good choices and be kind. Kinder than necessary and make someone's day doing random acts of kindness. It is truly a great feeling to know you've brightened their day. You just never know what that person may be going through and the effect a kind gesture can have. Happy New Year!
Saturday, December 31, 2016
End of the Year Wrap-up: 2016 Edition
I blink and the year is over. Most days are a blur of activity. I love how much we get to do and experience; it's a great life and I feel blessed at how much we have. I'm not referring to material stuff, but to the family that has been created through birth, marriage, and friendship. We are very rich in love, support, and strength. "All you need is love AND a dog." :)
I truly believe we make the most of our days and our time together. It's fun to experience life through our kids' eyes. This was more evident than ever when we went to Massachusetts in July. I am still smiling at the memories of our trip and quite proud of how everyone in Team Toppall had an open mind and was willing to try some pretty wonderful activities for the first time.
Travel this year:
March: Ocean City, MD for 3 days (the kids & me with friends).
May: England and Portugal for 10 days*
June: Orlando for a long weekend (Robyn & Ian)
June: Kids with Jeff's parents for 3 days
July: Massachusetts extravaganza for 10 days
July: Kids in Orlando for 16 days, I was there for 6 of them.
August: Ocean City, NJ for a week at the beach
August: Samantha at sleepaway camp in Palmer, MA for 12 nights
October: Gatlinburg, TN 5 days
November: Girls weekend in Berkeley Springs, WVA*
December: Orlando for 1 week (the kids & me)
*Represents trips taken solo
Can I just say "WOW!" ? This was the year we finally made expanding our family with a 4-legged member into a reality. Yay! Three months ago we welcomed Lucy, a 2 year old lab mix, into our lives. I am not sure who rescued who. She is amazing and sweet and so lovable. All she wants to do is cuddle and curl up next to you. We are so fortunate to have found her. Lucy brightens our day! I still look at her from time and time and can't believe she is ours. One of my favorite things to do is take Lucy with me in the car. I spend so much time going back and forth taking the kids to their activities; its nice to have the company.
Ian has impressed me big-time this year. He started taking drama through a local organization. It takes up a huge amount of his free time on the weekends (9:00am to 1:00pm on Saturdays) and he doesn't mind in the least. He enjoys it; really, really enjoys it. It's so cool to see Ian get excited over something. This Fall they did a production of "Singing in the Rain, Jr." and he had a blast. Ian also got into running and ran his first 5k (3.1 miles). He wants to continue with track in the Spring too. I am so happy we finally stopped talking about tackle football.
Samantha started a new activity to do each week and now takes horse back riding lessons. It is a great outlet for her and one she is truly enjoying. I love seeing the self-confidence she has being on top of these horses. And Sam also started running in the Fall, complete with a 5k race. Wowee! Another winner for her and one she wants to continue in the Spring.
I feel we've made headway with Sam and her getting ready for school in the mornings. Each year, we make progress. Not huge leaps and bounds, but baby steps. Through recent psychological testing with her therapist, we've learned a lot about how Sam's mind works. It's been like a light has turned on and we've been able to amend how we do some stuff. We are setting ourselves and Sam up for success. The next step is to go to Sam's school and have her teacher implement some adjustments. School is going exceedingly well for Sam right now, but we fear that in the next few years it will become a struggle to stay focused.
I made the impossible happen by taking the trip to England and Portugal with my friends in May. I still can't believe I pulled that off. The time away was magical and I seriously didn't stop laughing for 10 days straight. Being with your best girlfriends and getting to escape the day-to-day routine, traveling to far away lands, is something I feel that should be required at least once (if not a few times) in your life. I still pinch myself that I experienced this.
My weight is ALWAYS going to be a struggle. I've come to terms with this. I do the best I can do and not beat myself up over a bad day, or two, or three. I've done great consistently working out and feel good. It's what I eat that needs to always be monitored. It's too easy to fall into bad habits and it becomes a downward slippery slope very easily.
I've been trying to find a better balance and volunteer more. I'm now part of a Jewish group called "Mitzvah Mavens". I am enjoying this very much and the work we are doing is bringing the community together, while doing good. It feels very fulfilling to be a part of this group.
Jeff is still very much enjoying his job. It's a great company to work for. That's all I can say about that. :)
This was the year we survived a child of ours having their first broken bone. Samantha had a hairline fracture in her elbow. It happened at school (during recess) while I was away in England, Jeff handled it brilliantly and Sam with her arm cast was seen as a bit of a novelty in her class. She loved getting everyone to sign it. This year we also survived Jeff having the flu. Both equally impressive.
The year ahead in 2017:
In 2017, One of the events I am most excited for is our trip to NYC at the end of June. I somehow worked a miracle and got us 4 tickets to see "Hamilton". And we are planning to get tickets to "Kinky Boots" when they go on sale too. Both soundtracks the kids can sing in their sleep. Getting to see two shows on Broadway is a huge treat and I know these memories will last a lifetime with the kids.
Jeff has the opportunity to take a very cool trip this year and visit Joseph (Dawn's husband) in England. The two of them will travel to France and be in Normandy for the D-Day anniversary. How great is that? Jeff never does anything for just himself, so I am very happy for him that he will do this trip. I think it will be a fabulous adventure.
Get this, both kids are registered for sleepway camp for 4 weeks this summer. I am still in awe that Ian wants to go back. Sam loved her 12 nights there in 2016 and couldn't wait for us to register her again. We are still working out the financial part of it (OMG!! It's ridiculously expensive!), but I am hopeful we can make it work. I need to be SUPER hopeful because Jeff has different feelings on if we can swing it. I do believe the kids doing sleepaway camp is a great for their growth and development.
We still haven't done the recessed lighting in the house. I will hope again that maybe in 2017 we can get it done. Although, if we are trying to figure out how to pay for the kid's camp, I don't see the recessed lighting be a top priority. Who knows? We got a dog this year, so stranger things have occurred.
My personal resolution is going to have more patience. I am not sure why but I am getting more frustrated when people don't move as fast as I do or want them too. I need to remind myself it's not the end of the world if it takes a few more minutes to check out, move up in the gas line, or a million other things that has me waiting behind excruciatingly slow people. I think I just need to take a deep breath and chill.
Another resolution is to weigh the same or less than I do right now. If I can maintain this weight (or even keep losing) a year from now, I will be very happy I didn't slide backwards and kept the progress moving in the right direction.
My New Year's Wish:
If you are reading this, I wish for us to have more time to reflect, time to enjoy the quiet and time to relax in 2017. I hope that we can be able to slow down the clock and enjoy our days. And oh yeah, let's be kind to one another. Love you!
I truly believe we make the most of our days and our time together. It's fun to experience life through our kids' eyes. This was more evident than ever when we went to Massachusetts in July. I am still smiling at the memories of our trip and quite proud of how everyone in Team Toppall had an open mind and was willing to try some pretty wonderful activities for the first time.
Travel this year:
March: Ocean City, MD for 3 days (the kids & me with friends).
May: England and Portugal for 10 days*
June: Orlando for a long weekend (Robyn & Ian)
June: Kids with Jeff's parents for 3 days
July: Massachusetts extravaganza for 10 days
July: Kids in Orlando for 16 days, I was there for 6 of them.
August: Ocean City, NJ for a week at the beach
August: Samantha at sleepaway camp in Palmer, MA for 12 nights
October: Gatlinburg, TN 5 days
November: Girls weekend in Berkeley Springs, WVA*
December: Orlando for 1 week (the kids & me)
*Represents trips taken solo
Can I just say "WOW!" ? This was the year we finally made expanding our family with a 4-legged member into a reality. Yay! Three months ago we welcomed Lucy, a 2 year old lab mix, into our lives. I am not sure who rescued who. She is amazing and sweet and so lovable. All she wants to do is cuddle and curl up next to you. We are so fortunate to have found her. Lucy brightens our day! I still look at her from time and time and can't believe she is ours. One of my favorite things to do is take Lucy with me in the car. I spend so much time going back and forth taking the kids to their activities; its nice to have the company.
Ian has impressed me big-time this year. He started taking drama through a local organization. It takes up a huge amount of his free time on the weekends (9:00am to 1:00pm on Saturdays) and he doesn't mind in the least. He enjoys it; really, really enjoys it. It's so cool to see Ian get excited over something. This Fall they did a production of "Singing in the Rain, Jr." and he had a blast. Ian also got into running and ran his first 5k (3.1 miles). He wants to continue with track in the Spring too. I am so happy we finally stopped talking about tackle football.
Samantha started a new activity to do each week and now takes horse back riding lessons. It is a great outlet for her and one she is truly enjoying. I love seeing the self-confidence she has being on top of these horses. And Sam also started running in the Fall, complete with a 5k race. Wowee! Another winner for her and one she wants to continue in the Spring.
I feel we've made headway with Sam and her getting ready for school in the mornings. Each year, we make progress. Not huge leaps and bounds, but baby steps. Through recent psychological testing with her therapist, we've learned a lot about how Sam's mind works. It's been like a light has turned on and we've been able to amend how we do some stuff. We are setting ourselves and Sam up for success. The next step is to go to Sam's school and have her teacher implement some adjustments. School is going exceedingly well for Sam right now, but we fear that in the next few years it will become a struggle to stay focused.
I made the impossible happen by taking the trip to England and Portugal with my friends in May. I still can't believe I pulled that off. The time away was magical and I seriously didn't stop laughing for 10 days straight. Being with your best girlfriends and getting to escape the day-to-day routine, traveling to far away lands, is something I feel that should be required at least once (if not a few times) in your life. I still pinch myself that I experienced this.
My weight is ALWAYS going to be a struggle. I've come to terms with this. I do the best I can do and not beat myself up over a bad day, or two, or three. I've done great consistently working out and feel good. It's what I eat that needs to always be monitored. It's too easy to fall into bad habits and it becomes a downward slippery slope very easily.
I've been trying to find a better balance and volunteer more. I'm now part of a Jewish group called "Mitzvah Mavens". I am enjoying this very much and the work we are doing is bringing the community together, while doing good. It feels very fulfilling to be a part of this group.
Jeff is still very much enjoying his job. It's a great company to work for. That's all I can say about that. :)
This was the year we survived a child of ours having their first broken bone. Samantha had a hairline fracture in her elbow. It happened at school (during recess) while I was away in England, Jeff handled it brilliantly and Sam with her arm cast was seen as a bit of a novelty in her class. She loved getting everyone to sign it. This year we also survived Jeff having the flu. Both equally impressive.
The year ahead in 2017:
In 2017, One of the events I am most excited for is our trip to NYC at the end of June. I somehow worked a miracle and got us 4 tickets to see "Hamilton". And we are planning to get tickets to "Kinky Boots" when they go on sale too. Both soundtracks the kids can sing in their sleep. Getting to see two shows on Broadway is a huge treat and I know these memories will last a lifetime with the kids.
Jeff has the opportunity to take a very cool trip this year and visit Joseph (Dawn's husband) in England. The two of them will travel to France and be in Normandy for the D-Day anniversary. How great is that? Jeff never does anything for just himself, so I am very happy for him that he will do this trip. I think it will be a fabulous adventure.
Get this, both kids are registered for sleepway camp for 4 weeks this summer. I am still in awe that Ian wants to go back. Sam loved her 12 nights there in 2016 and couldn't wait for us to register her again. We are still working out the financial part of it (OMG!! It's ridiculously expensive!), but I am hopeful we can make it work. I need to be SUPER hopeful because Jeff has different feelings on if we can swing it. I do believe the kids doing sleepaway camp is a great for their growth and development.
We still haven't done the recessed lighting in the house. I will hope again that maybe in 2017 we can get it done. Although, if we are trying to figure out how to pay for the kid's camp, I don't see the recessed lighting be a top priority. Who knows? We got a dog this year, so stranger things have occurred.
My personal resolution is going to have more patience. I am not sure why but I am getting more frustrated when people don't move as fast as I do or want them too. I need to remind myself it's not the end of the world if it takes a few more minutes to check out, move up in the gas line, or a million other things that has me waiting behind excruciatingly slow people. I think I just need to take a deep breath and chill.
Another resolution is to weigh the same or less than I do right now. If I can maintain this weight (or even keep losing) a year from now, I will be very happy I didn't slide backwards and kept the progress moving in the right direction.
My New Year's Wish:
If you are reading this, I wish for us to have more time to reflect, time to enjoy the quiet and time to relax in 2017. I hope that we can be able to slow down the clock and enjoy our days. And oh yeah, let's be kind to one another. Love you!
Monday, November 30, 2015
The latest...
Life has been crazier than usual...is that even possible?? Unfortunately my blog writing has taken a huge decline, but I am proud to say that it isn't keeping me up at night. I do have much I've wanted to share these past couple of weeks (my gosh, we are going on months since I've written with regularity), but I am prioritizing what is most important and not stressing about getting some stuff done. Progress!!
Since Monday, October 12th, I've been partaking in a pretty big (more like MASSIVE!) undertaking. My friend Susanne suggested we try doing Whole30 for one month. It's completely clean eating. Additionally, you don't eat dairy, grains, gluten and sugar (of any kind!). Oh yeah, and no soy, or peanuts in any form. You focus on how you feel, rather than the number on the scale. It has been proven that eating clean, non-processed, non-packaged foods does wonders for a very long list of ailments, including but not limited to: inflammation, joint pain, and digestive issues. While I don't suffer from any of this, I do feel big-time sugar cravings and the 3:30pm/4:00pm energy crash.
It's no secret that my weight is the bane of my existence. I feel this is the one big area I grapple with daily, even hourly. I know that there has to be a better way and I am always willing to try something new. So I read the book this way of eating is based on "Whole30" and jumped into the deep end.
The first week was very overwhelming. I am making ginormous changes on the way I am eating and wasn't fully prepared how much time it would take to lunch or dinner made. I make EVERYTHING from scratch -- ranch dressing, pesto sauce, and tomato sauce to name a few things. I spend about 4 hours each weekend and prepare what I will be eating for the coming week. You can't really wing it from meal to meal when you need to make it all. I typically make on Sunday: Spinach frittata (this will be my breakfast each morning), ranch dressing, egg salad and/or chicken salad, and salads in mason jars for lunches. I've got a freezer stocked with items I can pull and put towards dinner each night (chicken meatballs, spaghetti squash, soup, cauliflower mash, etc).
Weeks 2 thru 4 went so much better and I got into a groove. My breakfast, lunch and dinner is packed with enough protein, vegetables and fat that I feel full enough to not even want to snack. Wow!
I am most impressed with my energy level and no longer feeling like I need a nap around 4:00pm. I love that I don't crave sugar or sugar filled sweets. And its a wonderful feeling to know that I am only putting high quality, clean foods in my body. It makes a huge difference when you actually taste the food you are eating and its not filled with preservatives.
Since I've started this way of eating, I've had to travel out of town 3 times (including one big-time never-ending foodarama filled cruise), and eaten out at restaurants a bunch of times. I am pleased to say I hung in there and kept my food choices to my new Whole30ish way of life.
The first month is officially over. Without counting calories or points, I lost 11 pounds in the first 30 days. I am working on making myself healthier mentally and not focus on the number on the scale. This is has got to be the biggest change to come of all this. Instead of getting on the scale daily, I now manage once a month.
I will keep going and going eating Whole30, being super strict at home, and not worrying so much about little details at restaurants or friend's houses. I am seeing great results and enjoying having a sense of control over my food choices, especially as we enter the holiday season.
Could it be that I've finally gotten my act together regarding food and my weight? Time will tell.
Since Monday, October 12th, I've been partaking in a pretty big (more like MASSIVE!) undertaking. My friend Susanne suggested we try doing Whole30 for one month. It's completely clean eating. Additionally, you don't eat dairy, grains, gluten and sugar (of any kind!). Oh yeah, and no soy, or peanuts in any form. You focus on how you feel, rather than the number on the scale. It has been proven that eating clean, non-processed, non-packaged foods does wonders for a very long list of ailments, including but not limited to: inflammation, joint pain, and digestive issues. While I don't suffer from any of this, I do feel big-time sugar cravings and the 3:30pm/4:00pm energy crash.
It's no secret that my weight is the bane of my existence. I feel this is the one big area I grapple with daily, even hourly. I know that there has to be a better way and I am always willing to try something new. So I read the book this way of eating is based on "Whole30" and jumped into the deep end.
The first week was very overwhelming. I am making ginormous changes on the way I am eating and wasn't fully prepared how much time it would take to lunch or dinner made. I make EVERYTHING from scratch -- ranch dressing, pesto sauce, and tomato sauce to name a few things. I spend about 4 hours each weekend and prepare what I will be eating for the coming week. You can't really wing it from meal to meal when you need to make it all. I typically make on Sunday: Spinach frittata (this will be my breakfast each morning), ranch dressing, egg salad and/or chicken salad, and salads in mason jars for lunches. I've got a freezer stocked with items I can pull and put towards dinner each night (chicken meatballs, spaghetti squash, soup, cauliflower mash, etc).
Weeks 2 thru 4 went so much better and I got into a groove. My breakfast, lunch and dinner is packed with enough protein, vegetables and fat that I feel full enough to not even want to snack. Wow!
I am most impressed with my energy level and no longer feeling like I need a nap around 4:00pm. I love that I don't crave sugar or sugar filled sweets. And its a wonderful feeling to know that I am only putting high quality, clean foods in my body. It makes a huge difference when you actually taste the food you are eating and its not filled with preservatives.
Since I've started this way of eating, I've had to travel out of town 3 times (including one big-time never-ending foodarama filled cruise), and eaten out at restaurants a bunch of times. I am pleased to say I hung in there and kept my food choices to my new Whole30ish way of life.
The first month is officially over. Without counting calories or points, I lost 11 pounds in the first 30 days. I am working on making myself healthier mentally and not focus on the number on the scale. This is has got to be the biggest change to come of all this. Instead of getting on the scale daily, I now manage once a month.
I will keep going and going eating Whole30, being super strict at home, and not worrying so much about little details at restaurants or friend's houses. I am seeing great results and enjoying having a sense of control over my food choices, especially as we enter the holiday season.
Could it be that I've finally gotten my act together regarding food and my weight? Time will tell.
Wednesday, December 31, 2014
End of the year wrap-up: 2014 Edition
It's crazy to think that 2014 is now over. What a year its been! We had The Good (Sam hitting some awesome milestones), The Bad (medical bills, car repairs, home repairs) and The Ugly (Jeff's disastrous new job from May to August).
Overall, I can hardly complain. My family continue to thrives and we are hanging in there. Here is my annual recap.
Travel in 2014:
February: Orlando for a long weekend*
March: Jeff and Ian go to Orlando for Spring Training.
April: Spent the night at Jeff's parents and then toured factories in PA during Spring Break.
June: Weekend trip to NYC with Jeff / Kids at Jeff's parents.
June: Ian in Massachusetts at Camp Ramah for 12 days
June/July: 11 days in Israel*
July: Trip to Dutch Wonderland and Hershey with the kids and friends.
July: Kids in Orlando for 12 days, I was there for 4 of them.
August: Weekend trip to NYC with Jeff / Kids with my parents.
August: Ocean City, NJ for a week at the beach.
October: Girls weekend to Berkeley Springs, WVA*
November: Girls weekend to Charlottesville, VA*
November: Orlando for Thanksgiving (me and the kids)
December: Cherry Hill, NJ with the kids during Winter Break to see family.
*Represents trips taken solo.
I always read what I wrote the year before. I find it interesting to see how close I get to my goals becoming a reality. One year ago I wrote that I am giving up on our family doing a week at the beach together. Guess what? I made it happen!! This past August, my family (along with my mom and stepfather) joined my cousin's family at Ocean City, NJ for a week. We rented houses side-by-side, 3 blocks from the boardwalk. Jeff was even able to join us...he was working very hard on searching for a new job during that week, but we had him around. We all had a great time and very much enjoyed being with extended family.
I love that I keep a written record of our adventures. It's way too easy to forget things we've done or experienced. I am happy to report that we are doing a better job not overscheduling. Only Tuesdays is my ridiculous day that has me in survival mode. I feel like from the moment I wake up to the moment my head can hit the pillow again, it is one 14 hour juggling act. Fortunately most Tuesdays Jeff is able to pick Ian up from religious school. Therefore, Sam and I can head straight home from her gymnastics class and get dinner made. I intentionally pick very easy meals to prepare on Tuesdays.
This past year Sam had some phenomenal moments. I am so impressed with what she accomplishes the minute she thinks it is a good idea. She went from having a very soaked pull-up each night when sleeping to deciding she no longer wanted to wear an overnight pull-up ever again. That was that. No accidents what-so-ever. It's pretty extraordinary how she was able to do that. Another amazing achievement was how quickly she learned how to tie her shoes. She wanted to learn and BAM!, within 2 days, she got it. It is so much fun to listen to Sam read. She is light years ahead of where Ian was at this age. Sam still has a lot of social anxiety and trouble expressing her feelings. We have a coordinated effort at school and with her play therapy to help her with this. I guess its getting better. But I tend to see all the instances where she lashes out and is not comfortable in a social setting. Her goal with therapy can be summed up with these four words: "Explode less, Cope more." She willingly goes to school each day, so I am thankful for that. :)
Ian has chosen to learn to play the violin. He walks around the house playing his heart out. He doesn't sound half bad either. He no longer is doing gymnastics and has a new passion in playing Flag Football. Who knew I'd enjoy watching his game almost as much as he enjoys playing them? He continues to do well in school and has a SCA (student council association) position in his class. He attends meetings regularly and helps decide things like Spirit Days. It's too cute listening to him fill us in on his lunch meetings. Ian is currently working on better managing his time each night with his homework. It's a hard balance for him to get a grasp on.
I am most pleased to report that Jeff landed on his feet after the new job nightmare this past summer. The newer new company he works for is a better match for Jeff's strengths and is a great fit for both Jeff and the new place. He comes home at a reasonable hour each day, feels good about the work he is doing and is not stressed. I know I appreciate having my former husband back and the kids love having their dad back.
Me? I've been struggling with getting Jeff more included on things we do outside the house. I've gotten into a very bad habit of planning with the kids and if Jeff doesn't want to come, we proceed without him. Before I realized it, the majority of our activities didn't include him. This has made me sad.
This past year I've taken steps for my family to eat healthier. I no longer allow preservatives, enriched flour, high fructose corn syrup, or red dye/yellow dye in the house. I buy organic / all natural as much as possible. It takes a lot of time to read labels at the grocery story, but its paying off. Ian's latest blood work came back much improved. And I feel better about the food we are all eating.
In 2014 my mom's health scared me big-time. Her Bypass (from only 2 years earlier!) had failed and she was in the hospital multiple times getting the blockages repaired. I hate seeing my mom go through this. It's hard seeing our parents age. I will continue to go down to Orlando to be with my family as much as possible. It's important to me for my kids and I to spend as much time as I can with the Florida crew. Of course with every visit, my desire to move and live closer to them gets stronger.
I continue to juggle all my part-time jobs. I somehow make it work and can still be there for the kids before school and after. I love the flexibility and am fortunate to have filled up the time my kids are in school. I've gotten in a good groove and hope it can continue for the foreseeable future.
I still have many, many issues with my weight. I am not sure I will ever come to peace with this situation. I do my best to work out regularly, but I can tell you without a doubt eating is my downfall. Who knows, maybe I am trying to fill some void? It will always be a struggle.
Looking forward to 2015:
I am enjoying our less hectic schedule and want this to continue through the new year. I also hope that we can do more things as a family, rather than me and the kids without Jeff. I am going to do my best to not plan too far in advance and take each day as it comes. I am encouraging Jeff to plan at least one activity (outside the house) once a month for us to do as a family. Hopefully he can chose things he will enjoy and want to be a part of. Meanwhile, I will pick an activity for us to do (in our home) as a family once a month. Admittedly, I do a very poor job of not interacting that much with anyone when we are all home. We do eat dinner as a family each night, but then I let Jeff take over hanging with the kids. More time spent as a family (both inside and outside our house) is my main goal in 2015.
I have big plans for our lawn. I am tired of it looking like crap. We got a proposal for an irrigation system approved by our homeowner's association. This should be installed sometime in the Spring. Having our lawn water itself will go a long way to helping our grass stay green. And having taken down two trees will help more sun shine through. If this doesn't get our lawn looking good, I don't know what will.
In 2014 we did get recessed lighting in our downstairs family room. We absolutely love it! It's been one of the best home improvement jobs we've done to the house. It would be nice in 2015 if we can continue and put more recessed lighting in other parts of the house.
My last thing I look forward to in 2015 is being grateful. Taking time each day (or maybe weekly is more realistic) to appreciate all we have. Even as Sam is exploding, my mom's words ring in my ears: "You wouldn't want her any other way." I know so many families where the parents are dealing with many more challenging issues...their son barely speaks, or the daughter is severely handicapped, etc. Yes, I am thankful for Sam and her ability to let us know she is in the room. :) We have a roof over our heads, always plenty of food on the table, and lights that come on when we want them too. A car that works (even if it has 167,000 miles on it!) and can get fixed when it needs to, and a family that is always there for each other. Not to mention friends who double as family. It's a pretty sweet life and we should be thankful for all we have. We are truly blessed.
A New Year's Wish:
To those reading this: I hope the new year is full of only good moments. May each day be better than the last overflowing with love and laughter. Go beyond your comfort zone and live life to its fullest.
Overall, I can hardly complain. My family continue to thrives and we are hanging in there. Here is my annual recap.
Travel in 2014:
February: Orlando for a long weekend*
March: Jeff and Ian go to Orlando for Spring Training.
April: Spent the night at Jeff's parents and then toured factories in PA during Spring Break.
June: Weekend trip to NYC with Jeff / Kids at Jeff's parents.
June: Ian in Massachusetts at Camp Ramah for 12 days
June/July: 11 days in Israel*
July: Trip to Dutch Wonderland and Hershey with the kids and friends.
July: Kids in Orlando for 12 days, I was there for 4 of them.
August: Weekend trip to NYC with Jeff / Kids with my parents.
August: Ocean City, NJ for a week at the beach.
October: Girls weekend to Berkeley Springs, WVA*
November: Girls weekend to Charlottesville, VA*
November: Orlando for Thanksgiving (me and the kids)
December: Cherry Hill, NJ with the kids during Winter Break to see family.
*Represents trips taken solo.
I always read what I wrote the year before. I find it interesting to see how close I get to my goals becoming a reality. One year ago I wrote that I am giving up on our family doing a week at the beach together. Guess what? I made it happen!! This past August, my family (along with my mom and stepfather) joined my cousin's family at Ocean City, NJ for a week. We rented houses side-by-side, 3 blocks from the boardwalk. Jeff was even able to join us...he was working very hard on searching for a new job during that week, but we had him around. We all had a great time and very much enjoyed being with extended family.
I love that I keep a written record of our adventures. It's way too easy to forget things we've done or experienced. I am happy to report that we are doing a better job not overscheduling. Only Tuesdays is my ridiculous day that has me in survival mode. I feel like from the moment I wake up to the moment my head can hit the pillow again, it is one 14 hour juggling act. Fortunately most Tuesdays Jeff is able to pick Ian up from religious school. Therefore, Sam and I can head straight home from her gymnastics class and get dinner made. I intentionally pick very easy meals to prepare on Tuesdays.
This past year Sam had some phenomenal moments. I am so impressed with what she accomplishes the minute she thinks it is a good idea. She went from having a very soaked pull-up each night when sleeping to deciding she no longer wanted to wear an overnight pull-up ever again. That was that. No accidents what-so-ever. It's pretty extraordinary how she was able to do that. Another amazing achievement was how quickly she learned how to tie her shoes. She wanted to learn and BAM!, within 2 days, she got it. It is so much fun to listen to Sam read. She is light years ahead of where Ian was at this age. Sam still has a lot of social anxiety and trouble expressing her feelings. We have a coordinated effort at school and with her play therapy to help her with this. I guess its getting better. But I tend to see all the instances where she lashes out and is not comfortable in a social setting. Her goal with therapy can be summed up with these four words: "Explode less, Cope more." She willingly goes to school each day, so I am thankful for that. :)
Ian has chosen to learn to play the violin. He walks around the house playing his heart out. He doesn't sound half bad either. He no longer is doing gymnastics and has a new passion in playing Flag Football. Who knew I'd enjoy watching his game almost as much as he enjoys playing them? He continues to do well in school and has a SCA (student council association) position in his class. He attends meetings regularly and helps decide things like Spirit Days. It's too cute listening to him fill us in on his lunch meetings. Ian is currently working on better managing his time each night with his homework. It's a hard balance for him to get a grasp on.
I am most pleased to report that Jeff landed on his feet after the new job nightmare this past summer. The newer new company he works for is a better match for Jeff's strengths and is a great fit for both Jeff and the new place. He comes home at a reasonable hour each day, feels good about the work he is doing and is not stressed. I know I appreciate having my former husband back and the kids love having their dad back.
Me? I've been struggling with getting Jeff more included on things we do outside the house. I've gotten into a very bad habit of planning with the kids and if Jeff doesn't want to come, we proceed without him. Before I realized it, the majority of our activities didn't include him. This has made me sad.
This past year I've taken steps for my family to eat healthier. I no longer allow preservatives, enriched flour, high fructose corn syrup, or red dye/yellow dye in the house. I buy organic / all natural as much as possible. It takes a lot of time to read labels at the grocery story, but its paying off. Ian's latest blood work came back much improved. And I feel better about the food we are all eating.
In 2014 my mom's health scared me big-time. Her Bypass (from only 2 years earlier!) had failed and she was in the hospital multiple times getting the blockages repaired. I hate seeing my mom go through this. It's hard seeing our parents age. I will continue to go down to Orlando to be with my family as much as possible. It's important to me for my kids and I to spend as much time as I can with the Florida crew. Of course with every visit, my desire to move and live closer to them gets stronger.
I continue to juggle all my part-time jobs. I somehow make it work and can still be there for the kids before school and after. I love the flexibility and am fortunate to have filled up the time my kids are in school. I've gotten in a good groove and hope it can continue for the foreseeable future.
I still have many, many issues with my weight. I am not sure I will ever come to peace with this situation. I do my best to work out regularly, but I can tell you without a doubt eating is my downfall. Who knows, maybe I am trying to fill some void? It will always be a struggle.
Looking forward to 2015:
I am enjoying our less hectic schedule and want this to continue through the new year. I also hope that we can do more things as a family, rather than me and the kids without Jeff. I am going to do my best to not plan too far in advance and take each day as it comes. I am encouraging Jeff to plan at least one activity (outside the house) once a month for us to do as a family. Hopefully he can chose things he will enjoy and want to be a part of. Meanwhile, I will pick an activity for us to do (in our home) as a family once a month. Admittedly, I do a very poor job of not interacting that much with anyone when we are all home. We do eat dinner as a family each night, but then I let Jeff take over hanging with the kids. More time spent as a family (both inside and outside our house) is my main goal in 2015.
I have big plans for our lawn. I am tired of it looking like crap. We got a proposal for an irrigation system approved by our homeowner's association. This should be installed sometime in the Spring. Having our lawn water itself will go a long way to helping our grass stay green. And having taken down two trees will help more sun shine through. If this doesn't get our lawn looking good, I don't know what will.
In 2014 we did get recessed lighting in our downstairs family room. We absolutely love it! It's been one of the best home improvement jobs we've done to the house. It would be nice in 2015 if we can continue and put more recessed lighting in other parts of the house.
My last thing I look forward to in 2015 is being grateful. Taking time each day (or maybe weekly is more realistic) to appreciate all we have. Even as Sam is exploding, my mom's words ring in my ears: "You wouldn't want her any other way." I know so many families where the parents are dealing with many more challenging issues...their son barely speaks, or the daughter is severely handicapped, etc. Yes, I am thankful for Sam and her ability to let us know she is in the room. :) We have a roof over our heads, always plenty of food on the table, and lights that come on when we want them too. A car that works (even if it has 167,000 miles on it!) and can get fixed when it needs to, and a family that is always there for each other. Not to mention friends who double as family. It's a pretty sweet life and we should be thankful for all we have. We are truly blessed.
A New Year's Wish:
To those reading this: I hope the new year is full of only good moments. May each day be better than the last overflowing with love and laughter. Go beyond your comfort zone and live life to its fullest.
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
End of the year wrap-up: 2013 Edition
Another 365 days have come and gone. I blink and there goes another year.
It's time now for the 2013 wrap-up.
Travel in 2013:
January - Orlando with Ian
February - Orlando*
March - Orlando with Sam
April - Great Wolf Lodge with the whole family
June - A week at the beach in Emerald Isle, NC (me and the kids)
July - Kids at Jeff's parents for 3 days.
July - Cherry Hill, NJ to see relatives with the whole family
July - Girls weekend to Solomon's Island*
July - Kids in Orlando for 11 days, I was there for 5 of the days.
July - Annapolis (Robyn and Jeff)
August - Philadelphia (me and the kids)
September - Orlando for Lori's baby shower*
September - Hershey, PA with the whole family
October - Girl's weekend to Berkeley Springs, WVA*
November - Orlando with Sam
November - Kids at Jeff's parents for the night
December - Orlando with the whole family
*Represents trips taken solo
As I write this, I am feeling hopeful and inspired. We've been making some progress with Sam's explosive behavior. I am not sure if its because she is in play therapy once a week or if she is just getting older. Don't get me wrong though, she can still be very demanding and whiny. The whining is the kind of noise that is akin to nails scratching down a blackboard or a cat being tortured. She is doing great in school and willingly goes each morning. Whew! Believe me, I know this could've been a major battle if she decided she didn't want to be there. However, she lets everyone know school is not her most favorite place to be. The only thing she likes about her time there is when its time to go home. I still wait for that little light bulb that will go off over head when she realizes a trip to the school nurse will get her an early dismissal. There are so many instances when the sweet and loving Sam comes shining through. When she sees you get hurt and starts kissing your boo-boo. Or, when she wants to help in the kitchen cooking dinner, raking leaves outside, or snuggle with you on the couch. Those are the moments that you savor and wish would never end. It's just so hard the other times when she is incredibly tempermental and not getting her way.
Samantha has this quirky, colorful, fun-loving sense-of-style. She will put these outfit combinations together that in a million years I would never think of. Somehow it works on her. Think Punky Brewster with this killer instinct to layer items. I've long given up telling her no that doesn't match. Sam knows what she wants to wear every day. She'll ask me what the temperature is going to be and then she goes to work. It mostly drives me crazy, but I do my best to pick my battles. I am ready to pull my hair out when she throws a fit yelling "There is NOTHING I want to wear in my closet." And when I suggest 2 or 3 outfits that she refuses to consider, it only gets more frustrating for the both of us. Sometimes out of the blue Sam will say she only wants to wear something 'basic'. HUH?? Who knew Sam even knew the word 'basic'? Apparently the word basic means sweat pants. Um, yeah! Sam would never have been ok with sweat pants before. I swear she makes this stuff up to push my buttons. And usually within the hour she is ready to completely change her look once or twice right before we have to leave.
Ian continues to be my rockstar. It's hard to not compare the kids' dispositions. Ian is so easy-going and eager to please. We've gotten into a good groove this year with homework for him. It is so nice that Ian mostly does it all on his own. Jeff and I will check it, but Ian doesn't need the hand holding that used to occur in 2nd grade. He enjoys all his creative writing assignments and does a most excellent job of incorporating humor and a unique twist in his stories. They are so entertaining to read.
This year Ian has started to do more things around the house. Beyond giving the bathrooms a light cleaning each Saturday, he nows makes his lunch for school, and gets all his own snacks. He is a huge help with his sister and usually is at her beck and call. Ian loves getting to stay home by himself when he doesn't want to come to his sister's activities or run errands with me. It is a wonderful option to let him have this independence. He feels so grown-up getting to be at home and to be honest, I move faster with only one child.
I was very fortunate this year to travel to Orlando as much as I had. I actually didn't realize that I made it down there 7 times in 12 months until I wrote it in the list above. Yowzer! I am pretty sure I've never gone that many times in one year since I moved up here over 20 years ago. I am so happy I was able to. I wouldn't want it any other way. I miss the family when I am not there and want to spend as much time with them as possible. I had made it a goal from the year before that I wanted to take 3 trips down to FL during the school year; one by myself for a long weekend, and one long weekend with each of the kids on their own. I was able to pull this off and it worked out splendidly. The relatives loved having the one-on-one time and each of the kids did stuff they would love to do without worrying about their sibling enjoying it as well. Astranaut training was the highlight of Ian's weekend and getting made up like a princess at Disney was Samantha's.
In 2013 I proved to myself I am not human when it comes to scheduling. My 4 jobs (preschool, The Crazy Man, and billing for two separate clients) are fitting in nicely with my Mommy life and being there for the kids. So many family and friends have said I was ridiculous for taking all this on, but I have to admit it has worked out nicely.
I had such dispair over my weight last year at this time. It was depressing thinking about my situation. In May I managed to start getting control back and rejoined Weight Watchers. I think this is like my 10th time back. I am happy to say I've steadily lost 30 pounds before I hit a plateau. I've become a bit discouraged and gained a little back, but I am very determined to keep moving in the right direction. This is always going to be a HUGE struggle. So. Not. Fun. Even when was I losing and getting great weigh-in numbers, I'd freak out a little on the inside waiting for it to not be a "good week". In the morning I wake-up and wonder, has the weight I lost found me again? I can't rest easy either way. I have been enjoying my closet and getting to wear some of the smaller sizes that hadn't seen the light of day in sometime. That is always nice when I can change up my wardrobe and not have to go shopping to do it. :)
One of the nicer things that has happened in 2013 is my ability to get back to the gym. I've consistently gone each weekday morning and get back home before Jeff leaves the house at 7:00am. I am thrilled I've been keeping this schedule up for the better part of the year. Yay me! And another acheivement I am proud of is my ability to 'let go'. Jeff has taken on grocery shopping each week. It is one less thing for me to do. I make out the grocery list for our week and Jeff does a wonderful job getting everything. Sometimes I have to look at the groceries getting unloaded with one eye closed, but Jeff has learned quite a bit over the year about checking expiration dates and the correct quantities on items we will realistically consume.
Jeff, without writing too much about him and pisssing him off, is an incredible husband and father. He works very hard to take care of us and make sure we are happy. This past year Jeff was put on a client that is based in Pennsylvania. It requires him to travel periodically for work and be gone anywhere from 1 to 3 nights some weeks. The kids and I do great when Jeff is away, but we do love having him home with us. Due to a costly repair not making sense to do on his Nissan Sentra, Jeff finally got a new car during 2013. I am so excited for him. It was bound to happen eventually and the timing was just near perfect. We made our last preschool payment in May. The new car was obtained at the end of May and payments began at the begining of July.
Looking forward to 2014:
Every now and then I have a moment when I feel like I'm doing an ok job with this mothering thing. In 2013, I had more than a few. For that I am grateful. I hope this continues into 2014. I was able to let some things go and will do my best to live in the moment. For example, I used to try very hard to publish something in this blog every other day, like clockwork. I've managed to drop that self-imposed pressure and be okay with only writing when I truly feel I have the time do so.
My big thing in 2014 is I am not going to rush. This must be Jeff's biggest pet peeve about me. He will see me do everything but get ready, or but start dinner, or but help the kids and then when I do get to it, I rush, rush, rush to catch-up those 10 minutes I should've started that task sooner. Jeff doesn't know this, but it does drive me crazy to feel like I have no time do the one thing I need to do. So if possible I am going to not get as distracted and slow down. Take time to breathe and put more time and myself in whatever the most important thing is that needs to have my attention.
I've been trying to do more random acts of kindness and will continue to keep this up in the coming year. It makes me feel good and I hope I am making a small difference (for the better) in someone's life.
We've had some very fun adventures traveling this past year. I would love to continue exploring new places and creating lots of memories being together. I've given up on doing a family trip to the beach over the Summer. This just isn't going to happen anytime soon. I am coming to terms with that. I think the most I can hope for is that we continue to do a few weekend trips here and there.
Another lofty goal I have is to redo our family room. I would love to get new furniture, paint, put in recessed lighting and update the tv in this room. Jeff and I are slowly doing things around the house, (either cosmetic or home maintenance) and this room is my next big target. After 9 years of living here, it was bound to happen, right?
A New Year's Wish:
Happy 2014 to each and everyone of you reading this. Thank you for continuing to be a source of support, encouragement and friendship.
I hope that you find ways to be good to yourself and not feel guilt when taking a 2nd piece of cake or spending an extra five minutes reading the newspaper. I hope that we all find humor and love and kindness in each day. May 2014 be our best year ever. I love you!
It's time now for the 2013 wrap-up.
Travel in 2013:
January - Orlando with Ian
February - Orlando*
March - Orlando with Sam
April - Great Wolf Lodge with the whole family
June - A week at the beach in Emerald Isle, NC (me and the kids)
July - Kids at Jeff's parents for 3 days.
July - Cherry Hill, NJ to see relatives with the whole family
July - Girls weekend to Solomon's Island*
July - Kids in Orlando for 11 days, I was there for 5 of the days.
July - Annapolis (Robyn and Jeff)
August - Philadelphia (me and the kids)
September - Orlando for Lori's baby shower*
September - Hershey, PA with the whole family
October - Girl's weekend to Berkeley Springs, WVA*
November - Orlando with Sam
November - Kids at Jeff's parents for the night
December - Orlando with the whole family
*Represents trips taken solo
As I write this, I am feeling hopeful and inspired. We've been making some progress with Sam's explosive behavior. I am not sure if its because she is in play therapy once a week or if she is just getting older. Don't get me wrong though, she can still be very demanding and whiny. The whining is the kind of noise that is akin to nails scratching down a blackboard or a cat being tortured. She is doing great in school and willingly goes each morning. Whew! Believe me, I know this could've been a major battle if she decided she didn't want to be there. However, she lets everyone know school is not her most favorite place to be. The only thing she likes about her time there is when its time to go home. I still wait for that little light bulb that will go off over head when she realizes a trip to the school nurse will get her an early dismissal. There are so many instances when the sweet and loving Sam comes shining through. When she sees you get hurt and starts kissing your boo-boo. Or, when she wants to help in the kitchen cooking dinner, raking leaves outside, or snuggle with you on the couch. Those are the moments that you savor and wish would never end. It's just so hard the other times when she is incredibly tempermental and not getting her way.
Samantha has this quirky, colorful, fun-loving sense-of-style. She will put these outfit combinations together that in a million years I would never think of. Somehow it works on her. Think Punky Brewster with this killer instinct to layer items. I've long given up telling her no that doesn't match. Sam knows what she wants to wear every day. She'll ask me what the temperature is going to be and then she goes to work. It mostly drives me crazy, but I do my best to pick my battles. I am ready to pull my hair out when she throws a fit yelling "There is NOTHING I want to wear in my closet." And when I suggest 2 or 3 outfits that she refuses to consider, it only gets more frustrating for the both of us. Sometimes out of the blue Sam will say she only wants to wear something 'basic'. HUH?? Who knew Sam even knew the word 'basic'? Apparently the word basic means sweat pants. Um, yeah! Sam would never have been ok with sweat pants before. I swear she makes this stuff up to push my buttons. And usually within the hour she is ready to completely change her look once or twice right before we have to leave.
Ian continues to be my rockstar. It's hard to not compare the kids' dispositions. Ian is so easy-going and eager to please. We've gotten into a good groove this year with homework for him. It is so nice that Ian mostly does it all on his own. Jeff and I will check it, but Ian doesn't need the hand holding that used to occur in 2nd grade. He enjoys all his creative writing assignments and does a most excellent job of incorporating humor and a unique twist in his stories. They are so entertaining to read.
This year Ian has started to do more things around the house. Beyond giving the bathrooms a light cleaning each Saturday, he nows makes his lunch for school, and gets all his own snacks. He is a huge help with his sister and usually is at her beck and call. Ian loves getting to stay home by himself when he doesn't want to come to his sister's activities or run errands with me. It is a wonderful option to let him have this independence. He feels so grown-up getting to be at home and to be honest, I move faster with only one child.
I was very fortunate this year to travel to Orlando as much as I had. I actually didn't realize that I made it down there 7 times in 12 months until I wrote it in the list above. Yowzer! I am pretty sure I've never gone that many times in one year since I moved up here over 20 years ago. I am so happy I was able to. I wouldn't want it any other way. I miss the family when I am not there and want to spend as much time with them as possible. I had made it a goal from the year before that I wanted to take 3 trips down to FL during the school year; one by myself for a long weekend, and one long weekend with each of the kids on their own. I was able to pull this off and it worked out splendidly. The relatives loved having the one-on-one time and each of the kids did stuff they would love to do without worrying about their sibling enjoying it as well. Astranaut training was the highlight of Ian's weekend and getting made up like a princess at Disney was Samantha's.
In 2013 I proved to myself I am not human when it comes to scheduling. My 4 jobs (preschool, The Crazy Man, and billing for two separate clients) are fitting in nicely with my Mommy life and being there for the kids. So many family and friends have said I was ridiculous for taking all this on, but I have to admit it has worked out nicely.
I had such dispair over my weight last year at this time. It was depressing thinking about my situation. In May I managed to start getting control back and rejoined Weight Watchers. I think this is like my 10th time back. I am happy to say I've steadily lost 30 pounds before I hit a plateau. I've become a bit discouraged and gained a little back, but I am very determined to keep moving in the right direction. This is always going to be a HUGE struggle. So. Not. Fun. Even when was I losing and getting great weigh-in numbers, I'd freak out a little on the inside waiting for it to not be a "good week". In the morning I wake-up and wonder, has the weight I lost found me again? I can't rest easy either way. I have been enjoying my closet and getting to wear some of the smaller sizes that hadn't seen the light of day in sometime. That is always nice when I can change up my wardrobe and not have to go shopping to do it. :)
One of the nicer things that has happened in 2013 is my ability to get back to the gym. I've consistently gone each weekday morning and get back home before Jeff leaves the house at 7:00am. I am thrilled I've been keeping this schedule up for the better part of the year. Yay me! And another acheivement I am proud of is my ability to 'let go'. Jeff has taken on grocery shopping each week. It is one less thing for me to do. I make out the grocery list for our week and Jeff does a wonderful job getting everything. Sometimes I have to look at the groceries getting unloaded with one eye closed, but Jeff has learned quite a bit over the year about checking expiration dates and the correct quantities on items we will realistically consume.
Jeff, without writing too much about him and pisssing him off, is an incredible husband and father. He works very hard to take care of us and make sure we are happy. This past year Jeff was put on a client that is based in Pennsylvania. It requires him to travel periodically for work and be gone anywhere from 1 to 3 nights some weeks. The kids and I do great when Jeff is away, but we do love having him home with us. Due to a costly repair not making sense to do on his Nissan Sentra, Jeff finally got a new car during 2013. I am so excited for him. It was bound to happen eventually and the timing was just near perfect. We made our last preschool payment in May. The new car was obtained at the end of May and payments began at the begining of July.
Looking forward to 2014:
Every now and then I have a moment when I feel like I'm doing an ok job with this mothering thing. In 2013, I had more than a few. For that I am grateful. I hope this continues into 2014. I was able to let some things go and will do my best to live in the moment. For example, I used to try very hard to publish something in this blog every other day, like clockwork. I've managed to drop that self-imposed pressure and be okay with only writing when I truly feel I have the time do so.
My big thing in 2014 is I am not going to rush. This must be Jeff's biggest pet peeve about me. He will see me do everything but get ready, or but start dinner, or but help the kids and then when I do get to it, I rush, rush, rush to catch-up those 10 minutes I should've started that task sooner. Jeff doesn't know this, but it does drive me crazy to feel like I have no time do the one thing I need to do. So if possible I am going to not get as distracted and slow down. Take time to breathe and put more time and myself in whatever the most important thing is that needs to have my attention.
I've been trying to do more random acts of kindness and will continue to keep this up in the coming year. It makes me feel good and I hope I am making a small difference (for the better) in someone's life.
We've had some very fun adventures traveling this past year. I would love to continue exploring new places and creating lots of memories being together. I've given up on doing a family trip to the beach over the Summer. This just isn't going to happen anytime soon. I am coming to terms with that. I think the most I can hope for is that we continue to do a few weekend trips here and there.
Another lofty goal I have is to redo our family room. I would love to get new furniture, paint, put in recessed lighting and update the tv in this room. Jeff and I are slowly doing things around the house, (either cosmetic or home maintenance) and this room is my next big target. After 9 years of living here, it was bound to happen, right?
A New Year's Wish:
Happy 2014 to each and everyone of you reading this. Thank you for continuing to be a source of support, encouragement and friendship.
I hope that you find ways to be good to yourself and not feel guilt when taking a 2nd piece of cake or spending an extra five minutes reading the newspaper. I hope that we all find humor and love and kindness in each day. May 2014 be our best year ever. I love you!
Monday, December 31, 2012
End of the year wrap-up - 2012 Edition
DUDE!! 2012 flew by! While it seems like there were days that felt they would never end and plenty of nights where Sam being awake from 2:00am to 5:00am for no apparent reason felt like an eternity, overall the year moved quicker than speed of light to me. We were busier than a one-armed paper hanger.
Yes, its time again to wrap up the year and move forward to 2013. Doesn't the number "2013" seem like such a big number?
Without further ado, here is my yearly wrap-up.
TRAVEL IN 2012:
March - Girl's weekend for Jen's birthday in Chesapeake Beach*
May - Overnight in D.C. for the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer*
June -10 days in Orlando (taking care of my mom)*; Jeff took the kids overnight to Dutch Wonderland
June -Overnight in Arlington, VA for my birthday (surprise from Jeff)
July - Great Wolf Lodge with the whole family
July - Kids at Jeff's parents for 3 days
July - A week in Topsail, NC at the beach (me and the kids)
August - 10 days in Orlando with me and the kids; 1 1/2 weeks the kids in Orlando without me.
October - North Myrtle Beach, SC with the whole family
November - Girl's weekend in Berkeley Springs, WV*
December - Overnight in Philadelphia/Warrington, PA
*Represents trips taken solo.
It's been quite a year! By far, the biggest thing that has happened to our Toppall team this year is that Sam is pooping on her own and regularly. I can't possibly explain appropriately enough how much of a toll the "encompresis" was taking on me and the rest of the family. My heart goes out to anyone who has a child suffering from it. It got really bad, and I wasn't sure we'd ever be out of the woods, but for the last 4 months, Sam has consistently gone every day (sometimes even 2 or 3 times). And, It's without the aid of Ex-lax! I no longer think we need to request an IEP for Kindergarten next year and have to explain her situation to the school. Additionally, we've stopped carrying a back-up change of clothes and 10 extra pairs of underwear/pull-ups wherever we go. Another milestone I was sure we wouldn't see anytime soon.
Sam has shown us her love for helping out in the kitchen, whether it is making dinner, loading/unloading the dishwasher or getting her own snacks. She enjoys baking and getting her an Easy Bake Oven proved to be a most awesome Hanukkah gift. It is wonderfully exciting to see Sam writing her name and other words legibly.
Ian is doing great and we've discovered that gymnastics is definitely his thing. He not only loves doing it, but is starting to do some really cool things during his practices. And fortunately in this past year, his reading ability is where it needs to be. I can listen to Ian read for hours. I love hearing from parents, teachers, and his gymnastics gym coach what a great kid he is. It makes me feel like I am doing something right, but I can only take partial credit. Ian is polite, charming, and hard to resist. His enthusiasm, quick wit and friendly manner is getting him many, many fans.
Jeff continues to make me laugh over a whole host of things unfortunately I can't share or write about. We've made it another year together and I am still madly love with him. He is my best friend.
As for me, I've become a huge disappointment to myself. When November 20th came around and marked the 1 year anniversary of running the Philadelphia Marathon, I became depressed over what I've let happen over this past year. My time at the gym became almost non-existent (to the point my membership, unbeknownst to me, was cancelled ALL SUMMER and I didn't even know it until October!) and my weight is back to the scary numbers I vowed I'd never see again. I just can't seem to get it together. I try to present a healthy image (eating well, working out, etc) to the kids. I shudder to think what they will grow up thinking is normal watching my weight balloon up and down repeatedly. Ugh. I'm either obsessing over it or I am not. There doesn't seem to be a middle ground. At age 41, I am still trying to get it together. I am back at the bottom of the mountain facing a very big mental challenge to get back to the top or even start the climb. This is real. This is me. I just want to wake up and be a size 6. Unfortunately that is not going to happen without a lot of hard work. Frankly my mind is not there yet. I am coming to terms that anxiety, the feeling of being perpetually overwhelmed, and running around like a chicken with its head cut off is getting the better of me.
LOOKING FORWARD TO 2013:
The biggest thing I am looking forward to this coming year? It's our last year for paying for preschool. We only have 5 months of payments left. This is HUGE! While I don't think it will instantly make us millionaires, it will help us greatly in saving money and possibly think about a new car. You know, like in the next 3 years maybe it could actually happen.
In the Fall of 2013, I am going to have two kids at the same school, for the same amount of time. And, the best part is, the school is located only a 1/4 mile from the house. I can't even begin to imagine how amazing this will be, to not have to coordinate drop-offs, pick-ups and do the Monday shuffle with a minute to spare.
The other really great thing I am looking forward to are my three trips to Orlando; one with just Ian, one trip with just Sam, and one trip on my own. Ian and I will be there at the end of January. I'm going down by myself over President's day weekend. And, I'll go with Sam at the end of March. I was able to identify a time when one child had off from school, while the other child still had to go. Each trip will be four days in length. We will do things that are of interest to only them and give my family the opportunity to have some great one-on-one time with each Ian or Sam. As my parents get older, I want to see them more frequently and have my kids spend as much time as possible. I hope these trips will be special for them and we can continue them each year.
In 2013, I'd like our life to be more simple, but honestly I don't see how that can happen. Maybe it needs to occur in baby steps. I am actively working on saying "No" as much as possible when being asked to take on more than I can handle. This is helping with not adding stress and chaos to an already busy day. The one thing that does make life easier is that as Sam gets older, she and Ian can be signed up for similar camps and programs. Plus, her being potty-trained is allowing her be accepted at places she wasn't previously.
One thing I can do to make my life a little simpler is to go through an electronics withdrawal every Saturday. For one year, I will not long onto Facebook or check email on Saturdays. I will answer texts, but not initiate a text message. I am very curious to see how I do with this one. I like to keep things interesting and 24 hours of downtime might be a welcome change or it might make me realize just how out-of-control-connected I've become.
Another resolution I am going to make is to not watch "Beverly Hills 90210" (the original series) reruns for the entire year. I have to agree with Jeff on this one and bypass the channel if I see the show is on. Did you know the show will have been OFF the air for 13 years? Yes, its time to say good-bye to Brenda, Dylan, Brandon, Kelly, David, Steve, Donna and Andrea. Oh, and I can't forget Valerie, who gave the show a breath of fresh air when she came on and moved into Brenda's bedroom.
I'd love to write a resolution about getting back in shape, making healthy eating choices, and overall feeling better about myself, but I hate the idea of succeeding and then failing all over again. Its much easier to stay a failure, right? Yeah, I know, I am probably depressing you too with this. Don't worry, my plan in 2013 is to figure this out and mentally come to terms with what needs to change so that I am not back in this position all over again in the future. Until then, pass the fries to me, please.
My last resolution is it would be nice if we did a trip to the beach over the summer and went with a few other families. I think it would be so much fun for the kids. I feel like if I write this down, then maybe, just maybe there is a half a chance of it happening.
A NEW YEAR'S WISH:
Happy 2013 to all my family and friends. Thanks for another year of reading what I write in this blog. And for those who seem to be following me and I haven't had the chance to meet you, an even bigger thank you for reading the words of someone you don't even know. That's pretty cool!
I hope this coming year is one filled with many magical adventures, gaggles of laughter, and incredible moments when you feel so blessed to be alive and smiling. We are all so fortunate to have each other. I love you!
Yes, its time again to wrap up the year and move forward to 2013. Doesn't the number "2013" seem like such a big number?
Without further ado, here is my yearly wrap-up.
TRAVEL IN 2012:
March - Girl's weekend for Jen's birthday in Chesapeake Beach*
May - Overnight in D.C. for the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer*
June -10 days in Orlando (taking care of my mom)*; Jeff took the kids overnight to Dutch Wonderland
June -Overnight in Arlington, VA for my birthday (surprise from Jeff)
July - Great Wolf Lodge with the whole family
July - Kids at Jeff's parents for 3 days
July - A week in Topsail, NC at the beach (me and the kids)
August - 10 days in Orlando with me and the kids; 1 1/2 weeks the kids in Orlando without me.
October - North Myrtle Beach, SC with the whole family
November - Girl's weekend in Berkeley Springs, WV*
December - Overnight in Philadelphia/Warrington, PA
*Represents trips taken solo.
It's been quite a year! By far, the biggest thing that has happened to our Toppall team this year is that Sam is pooping on her own and regularly. I can't possibly explain appropriately enough how much of a toll the "encompresis" was taking on me and the rest of the family. My heart goes out to anyone who has a child suffering from it. It got really bad, and I wasn't sure we'd ever be out of the woods, but for the last 4 months, Sam has consistently gone every day (sometimes even 2 or 3 times). And, It's without the aid of Ex-lax! I no longer think we need to request an IEP for Kindergarten next year and have to explain her situation to the school. Additionally, we've stopped carrying a back-up change of clothes and 10 extra pairs of underwear/pull-ups wherever we go. Another milestone I was sure we wouldn't see anytime soon.
Sam has shown us her love for helping out in the kitchen, whether it is making dinner, loading/unloading the dishwasher or getting her own snacks. She enjoys baking and getting her an Easy Bake Oven proved to be a most awesome Hanukkah gift. It is wonderfully exciting to see Sam writing her name and other words legibly.
Ian is doing great and we've discovered that gymnastics is definitely his thing. He not only loves doing it, but is starting to do some really cool things during his practices. And fortunately in this past year, his reading ability is where it needs to be. I can listen to Ian read for hours. I love hearing from parents, teachers, and his gymnastics gym coach what a great kid he is. It makes me feel like I am doing something right, but I can only take partial credit. Ian is polite, charming, and hard to resist. His enthusiasm, quick wit and friendly manner is getting him many, many fans.
Jeff continues to make me laugh over a whole host of things unfortunately I can't share or write about. We've made it another year together and I am still madly love with him. He is my best friend.
As for me, I've become a huge disappointment to myself. When November 20th came around and marked the 1 year anniversary of running the Philadelphia Marathon, I became depressed over what I've let happen over this past year. My time at the gym became almost non-existent (to the point my membership, unbeknownst to me, was cancelled ALL SUMMER and I didn't even know it until October!) and my weight is back to the scary numbers I vowed I'd never see again. I just can't seem to get it together. I try to present a healthy image (eating well, working out, etc) to the kids. I shudder to think what they will grow up thinking is normal watching my weight balloon up and down repeatedly. Ugh. I'm either obsessing over it or I am not. There doesn't seem to be a middle ground. At age 41, I am still trying to get it together. I am back at the bottom of the mountain facing a very big mental challenge to get back to the top or even start the climb. This is real. This is me. I just want to wake up and be a size 6. Unfortunately that is not going to happen without a lot of hard work. Frankly my mind is not there yet. I am coming to terms that anxiety, the feeling of being perpetually overwhelmed, and running around like a chicken with its head cut off is getting the better of me.
LOOKING FORWARD TO 2013:
The biggest thing I am looking forward to this coming year? It's our last year for paying for preschool. We only have 5 months of payments left. This is HUGE! While I don't think it will instantly make us millionaires, it will help us greatly in saving money and possibly think about a new car. You know, like in the next 3 years maybe it could actually happen.
In the Fall of 2013, I am going to have two kids at the same school, for the same amount of time. And, the best part is, the school is located only a 1/4 mile from the house. I can't even begin to imagine how amazing this will be, to not have to coordinate drop-offs, pick-ups and do the Monday shuffle with a minute to spare.
The other really great thing I am looking forward to are my three trips to Orlando; one with just Ian, one trip with just Sam, and one trip on my own. Ian and I will be there at the end of January. I'm going down by myself over President's day weekend. And, I'll go with Sam at the end of March. I was able to identify a time when one child had off from school, while the other child still had to go. Each trip will be four days in length. We will do things that are of interest to only them and give my family the opportunity to have some great one-on-one time with each Ian or Sam. As my parents get older, I want to see them more frequently and have my kids spend as much time as possible. I hope these trips will be special for them and we can continue them each year.
In 2013, I'd like our life to be more simple, but honestly I don't see how that can happen. Maybe it needs to occur in baby steps. I am actively working on saying "No" as much as possible when being asked to take on more than I can handle. This is helping with not adding stress and chaos to an already busy day. The one thing that does make life easier is that as Sam gets older, she and Ian can be signed up for similar camps and programs. Plus, her being potty-trained is allowing her be accepted at places she wasn't previously.
One thing I can do to make my life a little simpler is to go through an electronics withdrawal every Saturday. For one year, I will not long onto Facebook or check email on Saturdays. I will answer texts, but not initiate a text message. I am very curious to see how I do with this one. I like to keep things interesting and 24 hours of downtime might be a welcome change or it might make me realize just how out-of-control-connected I've become.
Another resolution I am going to make is to not watch "Beverly Hills 90210" (the original series) reruns for the entire year. I have to agree with Jeff on this one and bypass the channel if I see the show is on. Did you know the show will have been OFF the air for 13 years? Yes, its time to say good-bye to Brenda, Dylan, Brandon, Kelly, David, Steve, Donna and Andrea. Oh, and I can't forget Valerie, who gave the show a breath of fresh air when she came on and moved into Brenda's bedroom.
I'd love to write a resolution about getting back in shape, making healthy eating choices, and overall feeling better about myself, but I hate the idea of succeeding and then failing all over again. Its much easier to stay a failure, right? Yeah, I know, I am probably depressing you too with this. Don't worry, my plan in 2013 is to figure this out and mentally come to terms with what needs to change so that I am not back in this position all over again in the future. Until then, pass the fries to me, please.
My last resolution is it would be nice if we did a trip to the beach over the summer and went with a few other families. I think it would be so much fun for the kids. I feel like if I write this down, then maybe, just maybe there is a half a chance of it happening.
A NEW YEAR'S WISH:
Happy 2013 to all my family and friends. Thanks for another year of reading what I write in this blog. And for those who seem to be following me and I haven't had the chance to meet you, an even bigger thank you for reading the words of someone you don't even know. That's pretty cool!
I hope this coming year is one filled with many magical adventures, gaggles of laughter, and incredible moments when you feel so blessed to be alive and smiling. We are all so fortunate to have each other. I love you!
Saturday, December 31, 2011
End of the year wrap-up - 2011 Edition
I am truly surprised that we are at the end of another year. As the kids get older, the time seems to go by faster and faster. Each month comes and goes with a blink of an eye and before you know it, we are ready to ring in 2012.
TRAVEL IN 2011
Hershey, PA (with mom, sister and both kids) - February
Great Wolf Lodge (with Jeff and kids) - March
Las Vegas (with Jeff) - June
Orlando (with kids) - July
Philadelphia (with Jeff) - November
Orlando (on my own) - December
Philadelphia (with Jeff and kids) - December
So one of my resolutions during 2011, was to travel more with the kids as a family. I had wanted to do at least 3 trips with them. That didn't go as planned. But we really had a great time at Great Wolf Lodge and I am super glad we did that trip. I could see us going back there in a few years. We also just came back from Philadelphia as a family and overall, was a great experience and lots of fun.
This year was a challenge for me. I came to the realization that I can't have all these balls in the air and juggle everything. Taking on training for a marathon was the thing that did me in. It ended up consuming me, day and night. While I only had to do 3 training runs each week, it was all I could think of and I became too consumed by it. I don't have any regrets deciding to do it, but I realize now that it was a huge undertaking. Running the marathon was everything I wanted the experience to be and I am very happy, content and fulfilled that I can check this off the list.
Ian has continued to amaze me in school this year. We are spending loads of time working on his reading and I think (hope) it is paying off. We may have found the perfect activity for Ian; gymnastics. It's great for his upper-body strength, building confidence and letting him progress at his own pace. We may finally be saying good-bye to soccer. We'll know for sure in the Spring when I ask him if he wants to continue. Ian has shown amazing restraint and patience for his little sister. He loves her greatly, despite how much she can annoy him.
Sam is a force to be reckon with. All I can say is, we try do as little as possible to piss her off. Her vocabulary is crazy-impressive, as is her memory. We've been impressed with Ian's intelligence for a long time, but Sam is showing signs of being even smarter at a younger age. Jeff and I shudder to think, what if she turns out to be the smart one? One of Sam's favorite activities is to get under Ian's skin and do whatever she can to illicit a reaction from him. I found the key to dealing with all of Sam's excess energy is lots of structured activities. She is currently enrolled in gymnastics, dance, and music classes throughout the week. Throw in our new, indoor trampoline and we seem to be doing better than we were at the start of the year. Sam absolutely loves her dance class and I could see her continuing this activity for many years to come. She twirls around and around practicing her moves all week long.
Jeff is still enjoying his job and we are very happy he continues to be employed with a great company that values their employees. The gag order on talking/writing about him is still in effect, so that is all I have to say about that or him. The good news is that I still love him more than I thought ever possible to love someone you didn't give birth to. No matter how much he drives me crazy, I am still coming back for more.
LOOKING FORWARD IN 2012
I hope to obtain better balance and not let the small, stupid things become more important than it should. I'd like to set up a good schedule for working out and if I don't make it to the gym one day, know that it isn't the end of the world.
When it comes to my weight, I really need to get refocused and start making healthy choices. It's always going to be an uphill battle and I need to get serious about doing a better job.
Also, I am making a commitment to the kids to step away from the computer more (email, FB, blog) and spend more time with them - reading, playing games, and having fun.
I want to take each of the kids on their own to Orlando during the 2012-2013 school year, when they have 2 days off and we can make it a 4 day trip. I think it would be very special and a nice opportunity for the Florida crew to have some one-on-one time with their grandkids.
Also, Jeff's 40th is coming up in November. I hope we can do something fun to celebrate. I had a great time in Vegas, and it would be awesome to go some place he hasn't been and would like to go.
To all those reading, I hope you have a wonderful New Year and a 2012 filled with so many good times and laughter that your sides hurt from giggling so hard. It's been a fantastic journey for this mom from the suburbs raising 2 kids with her partner-in-crime. I eagerly await the adventures that are in store for us in 2012.
TRAVEL IN 2011
Hershey, PA (with mom, sister and both kids) - February
Great Wolf Lodge (with Jeff and kids) - March
Las Vegas (with Jeff) - June
Orlando (with kids) - July
Philadelphia (with Jeff) - November
Orlando (on my own) - December
Philadelphia (with Jeff and kids) - December
So one of my resolutions during 2011, was to travel more with the kids as a family. I had wanted to do at least 3 trips with them. That didn't go as planned. But we really had a great time at Great Wolf Lodge and I am super glad we did that trip. I could see us going back there in a few years. We also just came back from Philadelphia as a family and overall, was a great experience and lots of fun.
This year was a challenge for me. I came to the realization that I can't have all these balls in the air and juggle everything. Taking on training for a marathon was the thing that did me in. It ended up consuming me, day and night. While I only had to do 3 training runs each week, it was all I could think of and I became too consumed by it. I don't have any regrets deciding to do it, but I realize now that it was a huge undertaking. Running the marathon was everything I wanted the experience to be and I am very happy, content and fulfilled that I can check this off the list.
Ian has continued to amaze me in school this year. We are spending loads of time working on his reading and I think (hope) it is paying off. We may have found the perfect activity for Ian; gymnastics. It's great for his upper-body strength, building confidence and letting him progress at his own pace. We may finally be saying good-bye to soccer. We'll know for sure in the Spring when I ask him if he wants to continue. Ian has shown amazing restraint and patience for his little sister. He loves her greatly, despite how much she can annoy him.
Sam is a force to be reckon with. All I can say is, we try do as little as possible to piss her off. Her vocabulary is crazy-impressive, as is her memory. We've been impressed with Ian's intelligence for a long time, but Sam is showing signs of being even smarter at a younger age. Jeff and I shudder to think, what if she turns out to be the smart one? One of Sam's favorite activities is to get under Ian's skin and do whatever she can to illicit a reaction from him. I found the key to dealing with all of Sam's excess energy is lots of structured activities. She is currently enrolled in gymnastics, dance, and music classes throughout the week. Throw in our new, indoor trampoline and we seem to be doing better than we were at the start of the year. Sam absolutely loves her dance class and I could see her continuing this activity for many years to come. She twirls around and around practicing her moves all week long.
Jeff is still enjoying his job and we are very happy he continues to be employed with a great company that values their employees. The gag order on talking/writing about him is still in effect, so that is all I have to say about that or him. The good news is that I still love him more than I thought ever possible to love someone you didn't give birth to. No matter how much he drives me crazy, I am still coming back for more.
LOOKING FORWARD IN 2012
I hope to obtain better balance and not let the small, stupid things become more important than it should. I'd like to set up a good schedule for working out and if I don't make it to the gym one day, know that it isn't the end of the world.
When it comes to my weight, I really need to get refocused and start making healthy choices. It's always going to be an uphill battle and I need to get serious about doing a better job.
Also, I am making a commitment to the kids to step away from the computer more (email, FB, blog) and spend more time with them - reading, playing games, and having fun.
I want to take each of the kids on their own to Orlando during the 2012-2013 school year, when they have 2 days off and we can make it a 4 day trip. I think it would be very special and a nice opportunity for the Florida crew to have some one-on-one time with their grandkids.
Also, Jeff's 40th is coming up in November. I hope we can do something fun to celebrate. I had a great time in Vegas, and it would be awesome to go some place he hasn't been and would like to go.
To all those reading, I hope you have a wonderful New Year and a 2012 filled with so many good times and laughter that your sides hurt from giggling so hard. It's been a fantastic journey for this mom from the suburbs raising 2 kids with her partner-in-crime. I eagerly await the adventures that are in store for us in 2012.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
End of the year wrap-up - 2010 edition
It's been quite a year for my Toppall team and me. Other than dealing with a massive weight gain (21 pounds) and saying good-bye to my first baby (Bailey), I have to say 2010 was pretty spectacular.
I didn't expect to travel nearly as much as I did:
*January- Mexico for a friend's wedding,
*June - Orlando for my sister's graduation
*June - Martha's Vineyard for my cousin's wedding
*October - Girl's weekend at Chesapeake Beach
October - Lancaster for a family trip
November - FL for Thanksgiving, a week at the beach and 3 nights in Mexico with Jeff
I feel so fortunate to have been able to get away as much as I did. * Represents trips taken solo. I definitely hit the husband lottery in Jeff's willingness to let me go, while he stayed behind and took care of the kids. We discovered in October, traveling with the family was fun again. And in November, we hit a new milestone of being able to fly as a family again.
We lost a family member this year, our beloved Bailey. There is still a pretty big hole in all our hearts over the loss of our four-legged friend. I still think about him daily and Sam walks around saying, "New dog, daddy. New dog, please". Between me and you, I think by this time next year, I'll be blogging about the newest family member adjusting to our crazy family.
Ian has proven to be a math genius. While away in November, there was one morning we both woke up early and I used that time to teach him how to multiply. He got it. Literally in minutes. He is simply amazing and doesn't even use paper. You can see him doing all the math in his head before he comes out with the correct answer.
Sam is in full swing of being 2 and is a girl through and through. Between the need to change her clothes multiple times in a day, the persistence to do everything herself "My got it", and her overall fiestiness, it can only mean one thing, she is a force to be reckon with. G-d help us all.
Jeff had a great year at work and we rejoiced when his security clearance came through. This is something he had dreamt of getting for some time now, but needed a job/company that found it necessary. I am still under gag order to write about him. I love him dearly and will respect his wishes that I keep my mouth shut.
I, myself, came up with a New Year's Resolution experiment in 2010 and picked a small change I wanted to make each month.
*January - Give up soda
February - No snacking after 7:00pm
*March - Slow down on the activities, don't double-book and say yes to everything
*April - Take better care of my cuticles
May - "Bite my tongue", no picking on Jeff
June - No FB or email checking in the car
July - Same as June, but with hopes of actually succeeding
August - Work on diet, track everything I eat
*September - No longer be electronically connected all hours of the night
October - No credit use, use cash to pay for everything
*November - Take more video of the kids
*December - A random act of kindness each day
* Represents changes that are still occurring. Yes, that's right -- it has been one entire year since I had soda. Wow. It feels good to know that I was able to give this up and stick with it. Also, I am sleeping much better not reaching over in the middle of the night and checking email/FB on the iTouch. I like this change and will continue to do that. Lastly, as for the June/July change, I am much more conscience of when when I go to lift my blackberry and see what is going on with email/FB, and generally I do put it down unless I am in a parking lot with the car in park. So that is good.
As for the random act of kindness, I really got into the spirit of it and felt great. I will continue to do my best to help the world be a kinder, better place. And in my response to March's change, I went in the complete opposite direction and got a bigger calendar. I realized it was the small squares that was getting to me. Now I have the biggest calendar I could find and it helps to have everything neatly written in each square. I feel less overwhelmed by our schedule and can make it a point to say, "No, that day won't work for us. We already have stuff going on."
As I look towards 2011, I have some ideas/resolutions I'd like to embrace;
1. Travel as a family more. Take long weekend trips (at least 3 times over the course of the year) and really enjoy spending time with the kids, exploring and seeing new things.
2. Continue focusing on my health and well-being. In 2010, I really put myself at the top of my to-do list and made working-out and running a big priority in my life. Each morning I made it to the gym, hit the trail for a run or competed in a race, I was better mentally prepared to handle the day and whatever that involved. I got picked in the lottery system for this year's Cherry Blossom 10 Miler on April 3rd. I am excited about training for this and hope that when the day of the race comes, I can do the 10 miles without passing out. I've learned hydration is key!
3. Do something pretty spectacular this coming year as I turn 40. I am not sure what that is yet, but I want to go beyond my comfort level and tackle something so unheard of for me....maybe it is fitness related (a marathon?), or eat at a restaurant by myself (totally freaked out at the thought of this), or embark on a volunteer opportunity for the needy/homeless/women in crisis. I don't know what. I am still thinking about this. But I don't want this whole year to go by and not do something to commemorate my big 40th birthday milestone. This will be like a birthday present to myself.
4. Oh, and I want to stick with Weight Watchers. The revamped program is great. I am back with new enthusiasm and I expect great things. Each month (on the anniversary I joined - the 7th of December), I will update my weight loss results. This is it people! Every pound I say buh-bye to will be the last time I see it on my scale or theirs.
I wish all those who read my blog a very happy new year. May 2011 bring you good health, much happiness and lots of love. I hope you smile more than you frown, laugh more than you cry and see all the good there is out there. "And I think to myself, what a wonderful world."
I didn't expect to travel nearly as much as I did:
*January- Mexico for a friend's wedding,
*June - Orlando for my sister's graduation
*June - Martha's Vineyard for my cousin's wedding
*October - Girl's weekend at Chesapeake Beach
October - Lancaster for a family trip
November - FL for Thanksgiving, a week at the beach and 3 nights in Mexico with Jeff
I feel so fortunate to have been able to get away as much as I did. * Represents trips taken solo. I definitely hit the husband lottery in Jeff's willingness to let me go, while he stayed behind and took care of the kids. We discovered in October, traveling with the family was fun again. And in November, we hit a new milestone of being able to fly as a family again.
We lost a family member this year, our beloved Bailey. There is still a pretty big hole in all our hearts over the loss of our four-legged friend. I still think about him daily and Sam walks around saying, "New dog, daddy. New dog, please". Between me and you, I think by this time next year, I'll be blogging about the newest family member adjusting to our crazy family.
Ian has proven to be a math genius. While away in November, there was one morning we both woke up early and I used that time to teach him how to multiply. He got it. Literally in minutes. He is simply amazing and doesn't even use paper. You can see him doing all the math in his head before he comes out with the correct answer.
Sam is in full swing of being 2 and is a girl through and through. Between the need to change her clothes multiple times in a day, the persistence to do everything herself "My got it", and her overall fiestiness, it can only mean one thing, she is a force to be reckon with. G-d help us all.
Jeff had a great year at work and we rejoiced when his security clearance came through. This is something he had dreamt of getting for some time now, but needed a job/company that found it necessary. I am still under gag order to write about him. I love him dearly and will respect his wishes that I keep my mouth shut.
I, myself, came up with a New Year's Resolution experiment in 2010 and picked a small change I wanted to make each month.
*January - Give up soda
February - No snacking after 7:00pm
*March - Slow down on the activities, don't double-book and say yes to everything
*April - Take better care of my cuticles
May - "Bite my tongue", no picking on Jeff
June - No FB or email checking in the car
July - Same as June, but with hopes of actually succeeding
August - Work on diet, track everything I eat
*September - No longer be electronically connected all hours of the night
October - No credit use, use cash to pay for everything
*November - Take more video of the kids
*December - A random act of kindness each day
* Represents changes that are still occurring. Yes, that's right -- it has been one entire year since I had soda. Wow. It feels good to know that I was able to give this up and stick with it. Also, I am sleeping much better not reaching over in the middle of the night and checking email/FB on the iTouch. I like this change and will continue to do that. Lastly, as for the June/July change, I am much more conscience of when when I go to lift my blackberry and see what is going on with email/FB, and generally I do put it down unless I am in a parking lot with the car in park. So that is good.
As for the random act of kindness, I really got into the spirit of it and felt great. I will continue to do my best to help the world be a kinder, better place. And in my response to March's change, I went in the complete opposite direction and got a bigger calendar. I realized it was the small squares that was getting to me. Now I have the biggest calendar I could find and it helps to have everything neatly written in each square. I feel less overwhelmed by our schedule and can make it a point to say, "No, that day won't work for us. We already have stuff going on."
As I look towards 2011, I have some ideas/resolutions I'd like to embrace;
1. Travel as a family more. Take long weekend trips (at least 3 times over the course of the year) and really enjoy spending time with the kids, exploring and seeing new things.
2. Continue focusing on my health and well-being. In 2010, I really put myself at the top of my to-do list and made working-out and running a big priority in my life. Each morning I made it to the gym, hit the trail for a run or competed in a race, I was better mentally prepared to handle the day and whatever that involved. I got picked in the lottery system for this year's Cherry Blossom 10 Miler on April 3rd. I am excited about training for this and hope that when the day of the race comes, I can do the 10 miles without passing out. I've learned hydration is key!
3. Do something pretty spectacular this coming year as I turn 40. I am not sure what that is yet, but I want to go beyond my comfort level and tackle something so unheard of for me....maybe it is fitness related (a marathon?), or eat at a restaurant by myself (totally freaked out at the thought of this), or embark on a volunteer opportunity for the needy/homeless/women in crisis. I don't know what. I am still thinking about this. But I don't want this whole year to go by and not do something to commemorate my big 40th birthday milestone. This will be like a birthday present to myself.
4. Oh, and I want to stick with Weight Watchers. The revamped program is great. I am back with new enthusiasm and I expect great things. Each month (on the anniversary I joined - the 7th of December), I will update my weight loss results. This is it people! Every pound I say buh-bye to will be the last time I see it on my scale or theirs.
I wish all those who read my blog a very happy new year. May 2011 bring you good health, much happiness and lots of love. I hope you smile more than you frown, laugh more than you cry and see all the good there is out there. "And I think to myself, what a wonderful world."
Thursday, December 31, 2009
End of the year wrap-up
I always get reflective this time of the year and take stock as to where I've been and where I'm headed. I thought you would enjoy an update on some of the topics I blogged about. I've linked the stories to the original blog entry in case you need a refresher.
I Am Mommy; Here Me Roar!
Time and time again I've been told that kids love boundaries. I have found this to be true. I am very happy to say that the majority of Ian's outbursts and defiance is under control. When I see the start of temper tantrum or meltdown, I go through my checklist of what to do and get the situation under control. It is not always 100% effective, but for the most part I am very pleased with the progress we've made. And, we've more than survived a few days with no television allowed.
A little bling never hurt anyone
I've had lots of requests for a picture of the ring. It's hard to get a good picture, but here ya go. The ring is much prettier in person. BTW, a big thank you to everyone who supported me in my point of view in this matter. No one understands Jeff's side, but I love him very much anyway. Jeff says the only people who agree with me are women. Is that true?
It Really Is The Thought That Counts
Jeff was never able to get a replacement on the iTunes gift card he lost before giving it to me, but he found himself back at the Reston Town Center 2 weeks later and surprised me all over again with another gift card. This time the sweet note written on the gc holder was "Your still worth it."
Not For The Faint Of Heart
The selection of toys I brought home from the midnight madness sale at Toys R Us on Thanksgiving night for the kids was perfect. Nothing needed to be returned and I did a good job in my sleep-deprieved state shopping. HOWEVER, two days later, a Toys R Us circular appeared in the newspaper and 3 of the toys I purchased were now marked for a lower price than what I paid for it. Oy!! Of course, I went back, got a price adjustment and $42 credited back to my credit card.
We ended up paying the landscaper to rake and bag our leaves. For all of 3 days it was glorious to look at the ground and not see any leaves. I really got excited about not having to go out there and do the job myself. Jeff was right, this was much nicer. However, I think we had him come two weeks too early, because within a week's time it looked like nothing had been down to the lawn. So, in the end, I got out there over the course of a weekend and did the front lawn (1.5 hours) and the backyard (3 hours) myself. It was great exercise and I didn't mind doing it, but next year we are going to have to work on our timing better if we are paying someone to get the leaves.
Going For It
I am happy to announce that I was officially selected to run in the Cherry Blossom 10 Miler this April. I am scared and excited all in the same moment. Is it possible to be smiling while throwing-up? I ran it in 2007, so I know I can do it; but right now it feels like a huge mountain for me to tackle. I will officially start following the training schedule in January.
I Am Mommy; Here Me Roar!
Time and time again I've been told that kids love boundaries. I have found this to be true. I am very happy to say that the majority of Ian's outbursts and defiance is under control. When I see the start of temper tantrum or meltdown, I go through my checklist of what to do and get the situation under control. It is not always 100% effective, but for the most part I am very pleased with the progress we've made. And, we've more than survived a few days with no television allowed.
A little bling never hurt anyone
I've had lots of requests for a picture of the ring. It's hard to get a good picture, but here ya go. The ring is much prettier in person. BTW, a big thank you to everyone who supported me in my point of view in this matter. No one understands Jeff's side, but I love him very much anyway. Jeff says the only people who agree with me are women. Is that true?
It Really Is The Thought That Counts
Jeff was never able to get a replacement on the iTunes gift card he lost before giving it to me, but he found himself back at the Reston Town Center 2 weeks later and surprised me all over again with another gift card. This time the sweet note written on the gc holder was "Your still worth it."
Not For The Faint Of Heart
The selection of toys I brought home from the midnight madness sale at Toys R Us on Thanksgiving night for the kids was perfect. Nothing needed to be returned and I did a good job in my sleep-deprieved state shopping. HOWEVER, two days later, a Toys R Us circular appeared in the newspaper and 3 of the toys I purchased were now marked for a lower price than what I paid for it. Oy!! Of course, I went back, got a price adjustment and $42 credited back to my credit card.
Playing Hooky From Raking Leaves
We ended up paying the landscaper to rake and bag our leaves. For all of 3 days it was glorious to look at the ground and not see any leaves. I really got excited about not having to go out there and do the job myself. Jeff was right, this was much nicer. However, I think we had him come two weeks too early, because within a week's time it looked like nothing had been down to the lawn. So, in the end, I got out there over the course of a weekend and did the front lawn (1.5 hours) and the backyard (3 hours) myself. It was great exercise and I didn't mind doing it, but next year we are going to have to work on our timing better if we are paying someone to get the leaves.
Going For It
I am happy to announce that I was officially selected to run in the Cherry Blossom 10 Miler this April. I am scared and excited all in the same moment. Is it possible to be smiling while throwing-up? I ran it in 2007, so I know I can do it; but right now it feels like a huge mountain for me to tackle. I will officially start following the training schedule in January.
I've been getting used to eating gluten free. It is not fun and still doesn't come as the automatic choice in ordering something on a restuarant menu. The thing I am most blown away with is how my friends have gone out of their way to accomodate my new dietary needs. The girls in my monthly bookclub offer almost all gluten-free snacks. Dinner and/or parties at my friend's houses are very much aware of what I can and can not eat. They make sure that I will not go hungry. And, a few of "the girls" have even purchased packaged foods (pasta, oatmeal) for me when they see them being sold. It is very touching to have this much support. And, I love how many people have come up to me to share their Celiac story and give some wonderful tips and advice. I am not alone!
A New Year's Wish
I hope everyone reading this has a wonderful 2010, filled with much love, laughter and happiness. Happy new year! I am looking forward to a great year, being surrounded by my darling husband, two wild-n-crazy, adorable kids and not take any of the good fortune and blessings I have for granted. My big new year's resolutions this coming year will be to live in the moment and continue to do what I can to be a healthier, stronger woman and mother who has the energy to keep up with two of the most highly spirited kids she knows and loves.
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