Day 8 - Today was a bit difficult - I was ill prepared. I had an expo event at work and brought breakfast drink with me, the minty fresh berry which I am a big fan of. I thought I'd wake up earlier, since I went to sleep at 8pm last night; I didn't. I woke up with my alarm at 6am, but oh wait, I needed to leave the house an hour earlier to get where I needed to go, so I only had one hour to get ready which meant I didn't have enough time to make 2 more juices. The whole process takes a of time, to wash your produce, juice and clean up. Although you lose some of the health benefits, juicing the night before is better for me. I'm going to look into getting some mason jars that will be smaller and able to keep air out, which then lessens the oxidation process.
So, after 1pm when I was done I stopped at a gas station and got a Naked juice, pineapple, banana, mango I think - ugh it was horrible. It tasted grainy. Fresh is so much better. I went grocery shopping for the next 2 days and got everything I need and I'm ready tonight be back on track tomorrow. Tonight I made a great dinner juice that I foresee making more for sure, Lemon Lime but I left out the ginger. I've been adding the ginger where indicated but I think I'm just not a ginger fan and I'm willing to try out the nasty green juices again with less ginger and maybe some crushed ice. I also bought The Juice Bible today, so I'm eager to get reading on that. I was less hungry today, but I've had a pretty good headache since about 4pm and I don't think I am dehydrated - I've had a good amount of water.
Day 9 - I watched Forks Over Knives last night. I had a late night last night and went to bed at 11:30pm or so. I wasn't tired at all, but I woke this morning tired.
I had minty fresh berry again today because I didn't want my blueberries to go bad that I'd bought. Lunch is Lemon Lime and I brought a new juice from The Juice Bible because I had 2 zucchini that I didn't want to go bad that I needed to use. I forget the name of the recipe, but it is a little bland and tasty. Today is an easy juice day. I'm down 11 lbs as of this morning from I started this wild ride. Very cool! I think I'm entering phase 2 of detox - the best part being that I wasn't very hungry yesterday at all. After watching the documentary last night I'm prepared to go full vegetarian after the juice fast phase is complete. That along with my blood type is sort of a slap in the face that I should be eating a whole foods plant based diet for my best health.
8:30 - I've had another headache since about 5pm again despite drinking a lot of water. I broke and had a salad for dinner - I'm done. I'm glad for the detox that I did and the small weight loss to kick me into the next phase, which will be eating a vegetarian diet. Lets see if my headache comes back tomorrow with my planned salad for lunch.
Thursday, August 2, 2012
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Day 6 & 7 - HUNGRY!!!!
Day 6 - Juice Only first day
I woke up ready to start my day - morning groggyness is becoming less and less. I drank 4 juices today, the morning fruit one the best tasting of course and gave me enough energy until oh about noon when hunger kicked in - and never really went away. My best tactic has been distraction. Oh man, this is gonna be hard! Just 5 days....just 5 days....
Day 7
I went to sleep last night at 8:30pm just so I could end the misery. This morning I strangely didn't wake up with the hunger rolling in my belly. Again, I was pretty alert and energized - I'm thinking this will stick and is a great quick, easy benefit of the healthier lifestyle. I'm still hungry though - and what makes it worse is then because I'm hungry and I can't eat, rather than just take my mind off it, I'm obsessed with the thought of food. I actually can't concentrate very well on anything else. Arg!
I tried the purple power punch this morning and didn't care for it. Too much ginger and the grapes were a bit much. Lunch is the Mexican Style Jugo again - this one I can put down easily. I'm thinking maybe of mixing morning fruit drink with afternoon to have a less foul tasting drink throughout the day. I'm not sure if that is allowed or okay, but I might try it out tomorrow. The late afternoon is the worst for hunger. I stay busy in the morning but then can't concentrate and start thinking about food until its time to go home from work. When I leave the whirlwind of my evening starts and I'm fine again. I fell asleep at 8pm, exhausted. I thought well maybe I'll just get up earlier and then I'll have the energy to do things I'm neglecting to do - nope, woke up when my alarm went off at 6am.
I woke up ready to start my day - morning groggyness is becoming less and less. I drank 4 juices today, the morning fruit one the best tasting of course and gave me enough energy until oh about noon when hunger kicked in - and never really went away. My best tactic has been distraction. Oh man, this is gonna be hard! Just 5 days....just 5 days....
Day 7
I went to sleep last night at 8:30pm just so I could end the misery. This morning I strangely didn't wake up with the hunger rolling in my belly. Again, I was pretty alert and energized - I'm thinking this will stick and is a great quick, easy benefit of the healthier lifestyle. I'm still hungry though - and what makes it worse is then because I'm hungry and I can't eat, rather than just take my mind off it, I'm obsessed with the thought of food. I actually can't concentrate very well on anything else. Arg!
I tried the purple power punch this morning and didn't care for it. Too much ginger and the grapes were a bit much. Lunch is the Mexican Style Jugo again - this one I can put down easily. I'm thinking maybe of mixing morning fruit drink with afternoon to have a less foul tasting drink throughout the day. I'm not sure if that is allowed or okay, but I might try it out tomorrow. The late afternoon is the worst for hunger. I stay busy in the morning but then can't concentrate and start thinking about food until its time to go home from work. When I leave the whirlwind of my evening starts and I'm fine again. I fell asleep at 8pm, exhausted. I thought well maybe I'll just get up earlier and then I'll have the energy to do things I'm neglecting to do - nope, woke up when my alarm went off at 6am.
Sunday, July 29, 2012
Day 4 & 5 - Last Solids
I started this morning with my own fruity blend that had strawberries, blueberries, mint, a banana - fabulous. The fruit isn't hard at all. Lunch was a nice big reboot salad with romaine, rainbow chard, red peppers, tomato, avocado and the ginger soy dressing I love. I tried the Mexican-Style Jugo and it isn't bad at all - in fact, I could do that one. Lots of water, and dinner was leftover zucchini from last night and a small handful of cherries for dessert.
If any boys aren't interested in lady issues, skip this paragraph - you have been warned. I started my cycle Friday morning without any cramps. This is unusual for me. I generally have cramps the first day, not terrible but definitely in need of Midol or 2 Tylenol. This time, nothing. This is the first very real effect of a healthful diet I am experiencing 100% without question.
I'm still having occasional headaches, and I'm tired. I was at my moms house today and I broke - a little. I found my nemesis and couldn't resist. Anyone that knows me knows full well my weakness for ice cream. There was mint chocolate chip staring at me and I had 2 spoonfuls. I'm willing to forgive myself this indiscretion as normally I might have finished the container. I still felt guilty though. Its my weaning week though so I'm letting it go. Next week, Monday - no nonsense all juice!
Sunday I had the Sunset Blend and oh my - it was fabulous. I used rhubarb stalks instead of the beets though - red for red, right?! I had a Tastefully Simple event at a farmers market and while I was there in the morning drinking my juice I got very nauseous. I wasn't sure if it was the juice, if I was dehydrated, if it was the sun, everything catching up with me or what. I wasn't sure if drinking anything would make it better or worse - I sipped water for a while until it subsided. My stomach was gurgly all day but no major issues that sent me running to the Starbucks bathroom across the street from the market. Today had potential to be extremely embarrassing and horrible; it was just around the corner and somehow I managed to avoid it. I had some cucumber salad when I got back to my mom's house and a spoonful of egg salad. I couldn't resist - I don't even know why. I think I was really hungry, weak and not thinking clearly. For dinner I had another reboot salad with chard, red pepper, tomato, avocado and soy dressing and I made the roasted sweet potato and carrots again.
Note to anyone thinking of doing the Classic Reboot - check the recipe servings and if you only want one serving with no leftovers you might reduce the ingredients.
Two observations about today; I had to wake up at 5:20AM to get to Mt. Prospect and normally after some coffee I'd be good to go within half an hour to hour. This week has been a struggle to 'wake up' without coffee, as I've mentioned before. Today after stretching and getting up from bed I was less groggy and after washing my face I was actually pretty energized. Now, I was dead tired by 1PM, but that is another story. Also, my back has started hurting pretty bad. Either I strained it lifting boxes, etc. or the body rebuilding thing might be happening, although it seems to early in the detox process for that. I'm honestly guessing that I strained my back because of my generalized weakness. So, at the moment...it is really hurting and I'm hoping a hot shower and a good nights sleep does me some good.
Okay folks, tomorrow is the day...all juice...I'm pretty darn excited! By the way, as of this morning, I am down 7 lbs - nice!
If any boys aren't interested in lady issues, skip this paragraph - you have been warned. I started my cycle Friday morning without any cramps. This is unusual for me. I generally have cramps the first day, not terrible but definitely in need of Midol or 2 Tylenol. This time, nothing. This is the first very real effect of a healthful diet I am experiencing 100% without question.
I'm still having occasional headaches, and I'm tired. I was at my moms house today and I broke - a little. I found my nemesis and couldn't resist. Anyone that knows me knows full well my weakness for ice cream. There was mint chocolate chip staring at me and I had 2 spoonfuls. I'm willing to forgive myself this indiscretion as normally I might have finished the container. I still felt guilty though. Its my weaning week though so I'm letting it go. Next week, Monday - no nonsense all juice!
Sunday I had the Sunset Blend and oh my - it was fabulous. I used rhubarb stalks instead of the beets though - red for red, right?! I had a Tastefully Simple event at a farmers market and while I was there in the morning drinking my juice I got very nauseous. I wasn't sure if it was the juice, if I was dehydrated, if it was the sun, everything catching up with me or what. I wasn't sure if drinking anything would make it better or worse - I sipped water for a while until it subsided. My stomach was gurgly all day but no major issues that sent me running to the Starbucks bathroom across the street from the market. Today had potential to be extremely embarrassing and horrible; it was just around the corner and somehow I managed to avoid it. I had some cucumber salad when I got back to my mom's house and a spoonful of egg salad. I couldn't resist - I don't even know why. I think I was really hungry, weak and not thinking clearly. For dinner I had another reboot salad with chard, red pepper, tomato, avocado and soy dressing and I made the roasted sweet potato and carrots again.
Note to anyone thinking of doing the Classic Reboot - check the recipe servings and if you only want one serving with no leftovers you might reduce the ingredients.
Two observations about today; I had to wake up at 5:20AM to get to Mt. Prospect and normally after some coffee I'd be good to go within half an hour to hour. This week has been a struggle to 'wake up' without coffee, as I've mentioned before. Today after stretching and getting up from bed I was less groggy and after washing my face I was actually pretty energized. Now, I was dead tired by 1PM, but that is another story. Also, my back has started hurting pretty bad. Either I strained it lifting boxes, etc. or the body rebuilding thing might be happening, although it seems to early in the detox process for that. I'm honestly guessing that I strained my back because of my generalized weakness. So, at the moment...it is really hurting and I'm hoping a hot shower and a good nights sleep does me some good.
Okay folks, tomorrow is the day...all juice...I'm pretty darn excited! By the way, as of this morning, I am down 7 lbs - nice!
Saturday, July 28, 2012
Day 3 - Temptations Aplenty!
I forgot to take a picture of my morning juice, which was Minty-Fresh Berry. It was tasty and redish. My juicer puts a lot of air in the juice, it makes it a bit too frothy. I think the juices would be better if it was actually all just juice. - or I'd be able to suck it up in the case of a not so great juice. I wonder if all juicers work that way.
Mid morning juice is Refreshing Fennel-Pear which I added 2 limes to and try to cut down the fennel taste. It looks nasty, but the lime did it's job and it isn't bad. It is actually even a bit refreshing!
Drinking out of the tumblers with straws is easier than without a straw - I notice this today and I don't have a straw. Also, adding ice seems to help as well. I think flavors aren't as potent when they are colder. Watering down is helping too.
While I'm reporting on what I am eating/drinking I am forgetting a very important part of my day; reporting on what I'm NOT eating. The following has been available for free at work just in the past 3 days: Panera bagels with cream cheese on Monday (my favorite, the apple crisp was sitting on top, just calling and begging me, complete with it's partner in crime, hazelnut cream cheese), freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, carrot cake and red velvet cake. It was almost too much for me - I licked the frosting so as not to offend the gracious employee who baked my birthday cake. This morning someone brought Dunkin Donuts; I have been avoiding the box. I fear that if there is a chocolate iced chocolate cake I may throw the towel in. My stomach is growling and I really want one of those stupid donuts. Oh wait, I have my refreshing fennel-pear juice - I'm sure that will be just as good! Ugh.
Tonight is a feast! Baked Zucchini with Tomatoes and Herbs and Sweet Potato and Carrot "Fries". I forgot to take my camera home from work, or it is missing - so no pictures, but this was delicious.
I'm anticipating a busy weekend and fresh eating will even more so make it a busy weekend. I'm eager and excited about my upcoming week of just juice. I am still getting hiccups throughout the day - and trying to figure out why, although it looks like it might common. I feel tired today.
I had forgotten all about Eating for your Blood Type, which was just pointed out as a solution to some of the irritable bowel issues many of us juicers face. I re-read my blood type workup and I'm eager to to get started juicing in a healthful way particular to my chemistry - what a find! And for any other Type A bloods out there, here is some interesting info about you and me:
"Type As flourish on a vegetarian diet - if you are accustomed to eating meat, you will lose weight and have more energy once you eliminate the toxic foods from your diet. Many people find it difficult to move away from the typical meat and potato fare to soy proteins, grains and vegetables. But it is particularly important for sensitive Type As to eat their foods in as natural a state as possible: pure, fresh and organic. "I can't emphasize enough how this critical dietary adjustment can be to the sensitive immune system of Type A. With this diet you can supercharge your immune system and potentially short circuit the development of life threatening diseases."My blood type is perfect for what I'm doing! I read through all of the other parts and it all fits in nicely too. Last time I'd read this book, I thought I was AB and now that I'm an 'A' it all fits more into the way I feel. Anywho, if you don't know your blood type so sorry for you - call your doctor and see if they know and check this out - you will be surprised how accurate it is.
Thursday, July 26, 2012
Day 2
I know you aren't supposed to weigh yourself every day - I've never been able to stop myself when I'm trying to pay attention to my weight though. 2 lbs down from yesterday morning weigh in. I'll only report this once a week, but just know...I'm a daily checker - I can't help it.
I solved my coconut conundrum last night. My soup tasted like it had small hairs in it; because it did - I had a small thai young coconut on my hands and one youtube video later and I'm back on track.
I started my day off with Mandarin Orange Spice tea. All the teas that I have/bought are all herbal caffeine free. I'm a big fan of Celestial Seasons due to cost. I use a Stevia packet for now because I'm not used to non-sweetened tea. Stevia (I had never used it before now) is a mild natural sweetener that has no after taste - I will switch to this permanently also. I am normally an Equal girl, but now I'll have the added bonus of no cancer causing chemicals - Weee!
Breakfast was the very awesome Blackberry Kiwi Blend. I forgot to put the Flax seed oil in and then before leaving for work, I went to grab my tumbler cup, which I hadn't screwed the lid on completely...oh yeah, I was ten minutes late to work due to cleaning up the counter, cabinets and floor! The worst part to me though was this was so tasty I really wanted to have the whole thing - what a tragedy!
Good news to report - I only have a very slight headache today. I'm going to go have a 1/2 of a small cup of coffee and I think we will shoot for none tomorrow. It's my birthday, damnit - I'm having my last coffee. I could push through it, I'm sure...but isn't that point of the 5 day weaning? Okay okay, I'm making excuses just a little - last one, I swear!
Mid-day juice was V28 - it wasn't as bad as the nasty green juice yesterday, but it isn't great. Raw beets taste like dirt as Bluto pointed out and although I do like beets, generally cooked and cut up on a salad; he is right - raw beets taste like dirt.
I had my 6 dried apple rings today around noon - I couldn't grab lunch yet but I was getting hungry and needed something to chew very desperately. Between the apple rings and guzzling juice, I was satisfied although that was truly the first solid I had today.
Lunch was my leftover acorn squash from dinner last night - so yummy! :)
Dinner was crap - Green Vegtable Soup that was for sure watered down veggies that were tasteless, filling but not at all exciting. I pushed through. I have had hiccups throughout the day and my last poop had red from the beet juice. I was warned about this so I didn't freak out.
I actually can't wait for the 100% juicing to start - less prep, cooking and cleanup. All I'm doing when I get home is wash dishes, make dinner and prep next days food. I think the 15 day plan was for someone who likes to cook - it is too much for me...counting down the next 3 days until I can stick it all in the juicer and be done.
I solved my coconut conundrum last night. My soup tasted like it had small hairs in it; because it did - I had a small thai young coconut on my hands and one youtube video later and I'm back on track.
Breakfast was the very awesome Blackberry Kiwi Blend. I forgot to put the Flax seed oil in and then before leaving for work, I went to grab my tumbler cup, which I hadn't screwed the lid on completely...oh yeah, I was ten minutes late to work due to cleaning up the counter, cabinets and floor! The worst part to me though was this was so tasty I really wanted to have the whole thing - what a tragedy!
Good news to report - I only have a very slight headache today. I'm going to go have a 1/2 of a small cup of coffee and I think we will shoot for none tomorrow. It's my birthday, damnit - I'm having my last coffee. I could push through it, I'm sure...but isn't that point of the 5 day weaning? Okay okay, I'm making excuses just a little - last one, I swear!
Mid-day juice was V28 - it wasn't as bad as the nasty green juice yesterday, but it isn't great. Raw beets taste like dirt as Bluto pointed out and although I do like beets, generally cooked and cut up on a salad; he is right - raw beets taste like dirt.
I had my 6 dried apple rings today around noon - I couldn't grab lunch yet but I was getting hungry and needed something to chew very desperately. Between the apple rings and guzzling juice, I was satisfied although that was truly the first solid I had today.
Lunch was my leftover acorn squash from dinner last night - so yummy! :)
Dinner was crap - Green Vegtable Soup that was for sure watered down veggies that were tasteless, filling but not at all exciting. I pushed through. I have had hiccups throughout the day and my last poop had red from the beet juice. I was warned about this so I didn't freak out.
I actually can't wait for the 100% juicing to start - less prep, cooking and cleanup. All I'm doing when I get home is wash dishes, make dinner and prep next days food. I think the 15 day plan was for someone who likes to cook - it is too much for me...counting down the next 3 days until I can stick it all in the juicer and be done.
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
DAY 1
Overall, this is how I feel about Day 1:
So, since the next 5 days is about weaning onto the juice train, I am going to also let the next 5 days be a weaning off of the coffee train because I still need to function at work. When I was hiking I also experienced this and I forgot to really write about it. I am a big grump in the morning without my morning coffee. I never thought caffeine was really such a potent drug - but here I am - pouring a very small cup at 9AM because I might get fired if I don't. I have 5 days to have very small cups and hopefully pull it together. When hiking, this never got better really, but I wasn't eating fruits and vegtables so I'm hoping that things will improve as my body adjusts. I don't know, I could drawing my pain and misery out over a longer period of time maybe doing this, but at the moment my headache is subsiding and I think I can face my daily managers meeting without being too much of a B!
This is what I had:
Amy's Blend (Starbucks) herbal tea (Thanks Dad!) with 1 Stevia packet -
Cherry Cinnamon Apple Bake
**My first thought was that it is missing the good stuff, you know - the butter, sugar and rolled oats that make these bake things good. I could get used to it though - it makes its own natural sweet syrup for a nice tart treat!
Green Juice mid morning
I didn't like this one at all, although I'm sure others would. I am feeling a little weird today - I'm more tired than usual and feel 'off balance'; I've sort of stumbled (like I'm drunk) and nudged the walls taking a corner too quickly. I am maintaining a dull headache today even after drinking my one small coffee this morning. The green juice is gross; I had to push to get through it but hunger won out. I find that the longer I push off eating in the morning I don't get hungry. I run on coffee normally until about 10:30-11 when I'll have a granola bar. Yes, I know this is unhealthy. Then lunch normally at about 12-1pm and maybe a snack....mmm...I want a snack! Okay, anyway - having breakfast this morning got me hungry earlier and so I'm choking down this horrible juice out of hunger. It's the kale I think - ugh!
Reboot Green Salad - Lunch - 278 cal
Any greens you like (I did Romaine & Spinach to start) and add any veggies; I added tomato, red pepper and avocado. Dressed with 2 Tbsp of the Ginger Honey Soy Dressing. Have I mentioned how FANTASTIC this dressing is - I LOVE IT! I forgot to take a picture, but I'm sure you can imagine 'salad'.
Raw Carrot Ginger Soup
**This had an excellent creamy flavor, fun and filling! Unfortunately I did something wrong with the coconut and it tasted like there were small thick hairs in my soup - like small dog hair or something. Needless to say, it made eating the soup difficult at best to enjoy and I ended up throwing most of it away - and have another bowl in my fridge to do the same with since it made 2 servings.
By the way, here is the coconut I bought - and I need to research what the hell to do with it so I don't ruin anything else. Anyone else have any experience with this product? I simply chopped of a chunk and threw it in the blender - guess that was wrong!
And here was dinner, Roasted Acorn Squash Stuffed with Mushroom and Sage not the cute boy holding the plate! He helped cook today so he was very into seeing the work of art.
This was Ah-May-Zing! I will absolutely be making this in the future. Yum Yum!
I feel like today was a cold start between my ruined carrot soup and my juice was nasty. Well, tomorrow looks more promising, so I'm looking forward to it.
Its 9 and I'm tired - hitting it early. Nighty night!
This is what I had:
Cherry Cinnamon Apple Bake
**My first thought was that it is missing the good stuff, you know - the butter, sugar and rolled oats that make these bake things good. I could get used to it though - it makes its own natural sweet syrup for a nice tart treat!
Green Juice mid morning
I didn't like this one at all, although I'm sure others would. I am feeling a little weird today - I'm more tired than usual and feel 'off balance'; I've sort of stumbled (like I'm drunk) and nudged the walls taking a corner too quickly. I am maintaining a dull headache today even after drinking my one small coffee this morning. The green juice is gross; I had to push to get through it but hunger won out. I find that the longer I push off eating in the morning I don't get hungry. I run on coffee normally until about 10:30-11 when I'll have a granola bar. Yes, I know this is unhealthy. Then lunch normally at about 12-1pm and maybe a snack....mmm...I want a snack! Okay, anyway - having breakfast this morning got me hungry earlier and so I'm choking down this horrible juice out of hunger. It's the kale I think - ugh!
Reboot Green Salad - Lunch - 278 cal
Any greens you like (I did Romaine & Spinach to start) and add any veggies; I added tomato, red pepper and avocado. Dressed with 2 Tbsp of the Ginger Honey Soy Dressing. Have I mentioned how FANTASTIC this dressing is - I LOVE IT! I forgot to take a picture, but I'm sure you can imagine 'salad'.
Raw Carrot Ginger Soup
**This had an excellent creamy flavor, fun and filling! Unfortunately I did something wrong with the coconut and it tasted like there were small thick hairs in my soup - like small dog hair or something. Needless to say, it made eating the soup difficult at best to enjoy and I ended up throwing most of it away - and have another bowl in my fridge to do the same with since it made 2 servings.
By the way, here is the coconut I bought - and I need to research what the hell to do with it so I don't ruin anything else. Anyone else have any experience with this product? I simply chopped of a chunk and threw it in the blender - guess that was wrong!
And here was dinner, Roasted Acorn Squash Stuffed with Mushroom and Sage not the cute boy holding the plate! He helped cook today so he was very into seeing the work of art.
This was Ah-May-Zing! I will absolutely be making this in the future. Yum Yum!
I feel like today was a cold start between my ruined carrot soup and my juice was nasty. Well, tomorrow looks more promising, so I'm looking forward to it.
Its 9 and I'm tired - hitting it early. Nighty night!
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
3-2-1...We have lift off!
My friend Jason who is also doing this found a calorie counter that tells you how many calories to take in to maintain your current weight. Wow - it is no surprise I'm a chubster. I plug in my current weight, age and height; it tells me that to maintain my weight, I need to take in 2,229 calories. That is not hard to do. In fact, to loose weight the idea is to take in 500 less calories per day. I have no intention of counting calories at this time though. If I'm not seeing or feeling results, we can revisit the idea.
I spent $97.47 on this:
And that isn't even all the lettuces!
Today I tried no caffiene and I felt like I was in a fog - I had a small cup at 9am and immediatly felt better! Oh shit - this is going to be bad!
Preston has joined the juice wagon - I wonder if he will also continue his blog? I'll link to his if he does too - for anyone that is interested.
Here we go!
I spent $97.47 on this:
And that isn't even all the lettuces!
Today I tried no caffiene and I felt like I was in a fog - I had a small cup at 9am and immediatly felt better! Oh shit - this is going to be bad!
Preston has joined the juice wagon - I wonder if he will also continue his blog? I'll link to his if he does too - for anyone that is interested.
Here we go!
Monday, July 23, 2012
PSYCHE - Gotcha!
I got to work today and confirmed a lunch meeting at Portillo's tomorrow. So, it looks like I'll be starting on Wednesday instead. I've looked at my calendar and that works out pretty well actually because then I am still 'eating' through the weekend and then I start juicing on Monday next week. That also means I can easily go grocery shopping Friday eve for the weekend as well as Monday for the weeks juice supplies. I don't have any other lunch or dinner appointments coming up, so I will start this on Wednesday, July 25th now.
My friend Jason is going on this wacky adventure as well - and on my suggestion is blogging too. You can read about his adventure here.
With my day delay, I was still eager to make something tonight, so I made:
Ginger Honey Soy Dressing
2 Tbsp fresh minced ginger
2 Tbsp fresh minced garlic
2 Tbsp Raw Honey
4 Tbsp Nama Shoyu or Tamari soy sauce
4 Tbsp Olive Oil
Puree the first four ingredients in a blender. With the blender running, slowly ad the oil until the dressing is emulsified - keeps for up to 1 week (makes 4-5 servings; 133 calories). Very tasty!
And then I made a juice because I so very much wanted to try out the juicer. I had about half a bag of small carrots and I threw 2 granny smith apples in for 16 ounces of juice. It was kind of fun watching the little carrots dance in the chute, a few even bounced out. I need to figure out something to do with the pulp; I foresee guilt kicking in here soon for being so wasteful. There is a small notch that some particles were shooting out of, but maybe I didn't quite have it put together right - I will research this problem. The juice itself is decent; unexpectedly frothy, although I'm saving it for tomorrow morning. That was a lot of carrots for a small amount of juice. Hmmm.
My friend and old hiking buddy, Preston (AKA Bluto) started juicing last September and gave me call with some pointers, including buying a more expensive blender at the first sign that my blender isn't going to be everything I want. He also suggested another documentary, Forks Over Knives which I plan to watch tomorrow night. He also passed along the idea of checking in with YouTube for helpful videos! Thank you my friend, and it was really nice to hear from you. Be sure to catch back up with Windmill!
My friend Jason is going on this wacky adventure as well - and on my suggestion is blogging too. You can read about his adventure here.
With my day delay, I was still eager to make something tonight, so I made:
Ginger Honey Soy Dressing
2 Tbsp fresh minced ginger
2 Tbsp fresh minced garlic
2 Tbsp Raw Honey
4 Tbsp Nama Shoyu or Tamari soy sauce
4 Tbsp Olive Oil
Puree the first four ingredients in a blender. With the blender running, slowly ad the oil until the dressing is emulsified - keeps for up to 1 week (makes 4-5 servings; 133 calories). Very tasty!
And then I made a juice because I so very much wanted to try out the juicer. I had about half a bag of small carrots and I threw 2 granny smith apples in for 16 ounces of juice. It was kind of fun watching the little carrots dance in the chute, a few even bounced out. I need to figure out something to do with the pulp; I foresee guilt kicking in here soon for being so wasteful. There is a small notch that some particles were shooting out of, but maybe I didn't quite have it put together right - I will research this problem. The juice itself is decent; unexpectedly frothy, although I'm saving it for tomorrow morning. That was a lot of carrots for a small amount of juice. Hmmm.
My friend and old hiking buddy, Preston (AKA Bluto) started juicing last September and gave me call with some pointers, including buying a more expensive blender at the first sign that my blender isn't going to be everything I want. He also suggested another documentary, Forks Over Knives which I plan to watch tomorrow night. He also passed along the idea of checking in with YouTube for helpful videos! Thank you my friend, and it was really nice to hear from you. Be sure to catch back up with Windmill!
Sunday, July 22, 2012
2 days till lift off
I have a plan and I've told people about it...now I'm committed to something bigger than myself. It should be enough to do things like this for myself by myself; but for some reason that I'm sure has an interesting psychological story, I'm just not wired that way. So yes, I've shared with quite a few people now what I'm doing. What am I doing? Simply, I'm doing a juice cleanse. I am starting Tuesday (I need to go grocery shopping tomorrow to finish getting supplies) on what will be a 5 day juice/eating solely fruits and vegetables to wean into the next 5 days of just drinking on average 80% vegetable and 20% fruit juice. This is supposed to help make the detox process easier - and I'm keeping my goals small and easy for now. Again, for some reason this works better for me. I need to have my big overall goal in mind, but I also need to break down into something...palatable - no pun intended. Then if I feel like stretching that 5 days out to 10, 15 or 30 days I can. That big goal - absolutely, I would love to do a 30 or even a 60 day cleanse.
There are several different plans to pick from, which you can take a look at here. I'm doing the Classic Reboot.
I'm not going to go into all the details about the movie that inspired me, and the specifics of general info that if you are interested you can take a look at yourself, although I'll post as many links as I can that I come across that I find helpful for anyone following and interested, but also for myself for future reference. I'm going shopping tomorrow for the rest of the items needed for the first 3 days, which turns out to be quite a bit. Here is what I got today:
This is $87.57 worth of perishable food items, juicer not included, and I still have a lot to get. Some of it (the more expensive stuff, like raw honey) will last much more than 3 days. There is a learning curve like anything new; I had to look up how to store some things, like fresh ginger. I'm not a ginger fan and I've only ever bought it minced in a jar. There are lettuces and leafy products I didn't know by sight either, and because grocery store produce signs are sooo helpful, it was a real joy trying to figure it out. I'll be the first to say I couldn't have picked out swiss chard, kale, arugula or jicama without first searching for the image online so I would have a clue of what to look for. Here is how to store different produce.
Okay, I had my last cigarette at about 5pm today and my mind is more so reeling at the thought that tomorrow's cup of coffee will be the last one for quite some time, I'll be honest. Tomorrow is my last day of regular food and then onward we go...into my newest adventure; to better health and higher energy!
There are several different plans to pick from, which you can take a look at here. I'm doing the Classic Reboot.
I'm not going to go into all the details about the movie that inspired me, and the specifics of general info that if you are interested you can take a look at yourself, although I'll post as many links as I can that I come across that I find helpful for anyone following and interested, but also for myself for future reference. I'm going shopping tomorrow for the rest of the items needed for the first 3 days, which turns out to be quite a bit. Here is what I got today:
Okay, I had my last cigarette at about 5pm today and my mind is more so reeling at the thought that tomorrow's cup of coffee will be the last one for quite some time, I'll be honest. Tomorrow is my last day of regular food and then onward we go...into my newest adventure; to better health and higher energy!
Sunday, July 15, 2012
I'm a JUICER!
Wow - that was quite the rant in my previous post...well, lets just say that the stress of that situation will be soon better. More on that later, but for now...
DUH-DUH-DUH
I had nothing to write about a few days ago despite it being Elba's 2nd birthday. That isn't true - I have tons of Elba stuff to report on; he can swim by himself in the pool with arm floaties on (jumping in, going under and sort of upright 'walking' through the pool), he is showing such personality and talking very well now. We have 3 words consistently, including "Captain Jack Sparrow" - oh yes, my boy will be a pirate! I could go on and on, and perhaps I will on another post.
But tonight I can't sleep and I need to get to bed because I have to work tomorrow and it's 11PM; but I am so excited. I just bought a juicer and I'm getting ready to reboot! What am I talking about? I watched this movie and have joined this juicing community. I have my juicer en route via Amazon (5-8 days) so I am ready to start getting ready for my next adventure. I took before pictures, which is back to my pre-preggo weight of 210 pounds and it is like I never even had that personal trainer and gym routine - damn. I have a friend who is going to do it too and I'm totally psyched! Weee!
I'll check in with more details on my plan, etc. when I have one!
Sunday, June 3, 2012
1 < 2
Yup, we are one month shy of 2 years now since that boy was cut out of me. I wonder if the memory will ever fade because I can still recall the entire thing, from those first morning contractions to coming home with Elba and gathering him up because I just wanted to hold him while he slept. It is refreshing to think of the beginning and reflect on all the love and joy he brings because it isn't always roses.
If nothing else, I'm honest for better or worse, right? Elba has been coming into the terrible twos now for a few months and he is just hell on wheels sometimes. When he doesn't need help or wants to do something by himself, he will yell 'self', or 'my turn'. He is a little fiery ball of independence - I don't know where he gets it from. I'm learning that patience and allowing extra time is generally a good way to avoid meltdowns, but sometimes it just can't be avoided, like when he wants to drive the car home or doesn't want to get in his car seat, or have it buckled, or wants a fifth popsicle after not eating any diner. You have to put your foot down somewhere, right? But he is a good boy and listens so well most of the time. He keeps his full cup of juice where you tell him to keep it and happily climbs into his big boy bed when it is time to go to sleep, but he currently hates taking a bath and that is a constant struggle despite fun toys, bath crayons, roller paints and stack-able cups. Its like a circus in the tub and he still wants nothing to do with it. He knows at some point I will wash his hair.
We are falling to our routine, he and I - we get up in the morning and struggle to get out the door on time. I really should wake earlier and get myself ready before he wakes and things could be easier. I'm really just not a morning person. I struggle and always have to get up out of bed any earlier than I have to. Okay, I'm going to work on this. I go to work (and I've officially started looking for a new job), come home and am now so tired that I'm counting down until his bedtime. How horrible is that? What is worse is that I miss him after he is asleep. I do wish I had more time with Elba - but in the morning when he is still his normal self. I get the leftover fragmented bits of my child that are left loose, whipping around and taking out bits of flesh along the way. Okay, I exaggerate yes, but how much I'm not sure. I love him and wish I had more fun easy time with him. In the evening though I just want him to tucker out and go to bed. I think is a part of that terrible two thing that I hope will pass into something less tiring. I'm exhausted at the end of the day, but who am I kidding...it's been that way here in Chicago since I moved back. Is it the job, Elba's age, my stress - I don't know. I feel like I'm burning the candle from both ends sometimes. And it isn't that I have anything to really do or get stressed out about really. Maybe with him acting crazy for most of the time that I'm with him and my lack of energy to do much with the free time I have I am missing those lazy weekends where I would feel guilty having done nothing but sit inside and play computer games over the weekend. Or camping - I want to go camping and just read alone, or go on a day hike and have some peaceful quiet alone time. I know how terrible it all sounds and I feel bad for saying it, but I miss parts of my life that are gone or hiding, tucked away for reference later. I feel like my life is a mission right now. I'm doing this thing - this Mom thing, to the best of my ability - and there are fabulous parts and some really fun and joyous moments....but it is a lot of crap too that really is challenging at best.
I have a lot of resentment toward Mitchel right now too, I admit. I shouldn't be doing this alone. He gets to do whatever he wants, holding tight to making no significant changes in his life (that was in fact the problem, right?) or the ones he does for the wrong reason. Forget the lack of financial support promised, I'm mad for so many reasons at him that I can't stay at his house right now any longer than the time it takes to drop off and pickup Elba at the moment. Otherwise he just grates on me; and it doesn't end there. See, I obsess about things inside and having a 5 hour silent drive after faced with Mitchel's lies, or his flagrant misuse of money, bad judgment and worst of all disregard of his son; it is no time for hours upon hours alone in my head. I'm learning - on past trips I've worked a good emotional storm up in my head so much that after stopping for gas I got on the expressway heading in the wrong direction and didn't realize it for a good 30 miles. I don't know how to turn it off...I would if I could and I've always been this way. I'd be a happier saner person if I could stop obsessing picking it all over in my mind like that sore in your mouth you just can't stop tonguing and let heal. And on some melancholy nights it will sneak up on me and I'll cry for Elba - that things couldn't have been different for him or better for me. I know that I'd enjoy this more if it weren't such hard work by myself.
On a brighter note, I've started to do things for myself; I just finished reading the last book in the second trilogy since April. I haven't read this much since high school. I went and played NERO recently and had a great time, feeling like my old self for less than 48 hours. That is all I can think of to say right now.
Sunday, April 1, 2012
April Fool
April 1st already; I've been back for 6 months now. Elba will be 2 years old in four months now. He is talking a lot now; he is a sponge and repeats everything he hears. He understands everything too; the TV got turned on and the volumne was very high. I commented that it was too loud and then later when we were in the car, he tells me that the radio is loud. Amazing.
So, this is a tough job...and I feel like it is hard for me to know what the right thing to do is; with everything. I'm wondering if now that I'm here I should start looking for a higher paying job. Should I purchase a townhouse instead of throwing my money away in rent now. This will all mean yet more change for Elba; how much can he handle without having a bad adjustment? Oh, things with Louis and I aren't quit working out so he is heading back to Michigan. Yet another change. I'm done dating and trying to work out a relationship; quite possibly the one area in my life that maybe I'm just downright bad at. I don't want to get into all the nitty gritty, but in a nutshell I think he isn't ready for all this and we aren't very complimentary of eachother. Maybe that is something that could have been seen if we had actually dated for longer, but such is life. I don't do anything half assed. It's always been all or nothing for me. Okay, so that is that. I should have stayed living at my aunt's...I can hear all of the 'I told you so's.
So, this is a tough job...and I feel like it is hard for me to know what the right thing to do is; with everything. I'm wondering if now that I'm here I should start looking for a higher paying job. Should I purchase a townhouse instead of throwing my money away in rent now. This will all mean yet more change for Elba; how much can he handle without having a bad adjustment? Oh, things with Louis and I aren't quit working out so he is heading back to Michigan. Yet another change. I'm done dating and trying to work out a relationship; quite possibly the one area in my life that maybe I'm just downright bad at. I don't want to get into all the nitty gritty, but in a nutshell I think he isn't ready for all this and we aren't very complimentary of eachother. Maybe that is something that could have been seen if we had actually dated for longer, but such is life. I don't do anything half assed. It's always been all or nothing for me. Okay, so that is that. I should have stayed living at my aunt's...I can hear all of the 'I told you so's.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Nightmare
Many years ago I fell asleep in the passenger seat driving home from a NERO event. While asleep I had a dream in which I was sitting in that same spot, looking out the window and all of a sudden there was a 'pop', a hole in the window and blood splatter. In the dream, I looked over to the driver of the vehicle and was starting to say that I've been shot, but then my vision started fading and I couldn't talk, ultimately leading to me slumping over. At that moment, I jolted awake in the car and was disoriented and confused. It took me a second to realize I'd just been dreaming. I was elated at the realization that I wasn't dying and everything was fine. I cheerily told my boyfriend who was driving about the 'freaky' dream I just had and how weird it was.
The other night something similar happened, but it was not freaky or weird, it was downright horrifying and I still can't shake it. I was sleeping in bed and dreamt that I was sitting in bed and Elba was sitting playing on the floor beside me eating pieces of an apple. I can vividly remember the bright red skin of the piece that he started to choke on, completely blocked his airway and caused his whole head to turn red, his eyes to widen, and I witnessed my sons panicked thrashing as I jumped up out of bed to grab him and begin the Heimlich. All of a sudden there were pillows on the floor, it is dark and Elba must have slipped around the corner when I was getting up because now he is gone! I'm shaking with adrenaline, and flinging the pillows on the ground around, maybe he is under one? I flipped the light on and was trying to keep myself from throwing up so I could find Elba...good lord, he was choking and might die soon! I couldn't find him, he had disappeared. I'm now aware that Lou is sitting up in bed looking at me scared, "What?! What's wrong?" I can't explain the whole thing, but I'm pissed that he isn't looking for Elba too. "I can't...I can't...I can't find it" is what I think I said. "What? What can't you find?" he asked, and it was actually him that brought me back to reality and made me realize that Elba was fine, in bed asleep and I had been too. I was shaking so bad I thought I might fall over, so I remember squatting down and getting on the floor and then just laughing at the realization. Lou told me that he had woken up not by the commotion or the light being turned on, but rather by my blood curdling scream. I don't remember screaming at any point. I think I woke up when I was getting out of bed, but I'm honestly not sure...I was never aware that I woke up, that anything had changed, and I was so disoriented that I didn't for a second realize that the continuity of Elba missing didn't make sense. It was so real....and so very scary.
The other night something similar happened, but it was not freaky or weird, it was downright horrifying and I still can't shake it. I was sleeping in bed and dreamt that I was sitting in bed and Elba was sitting playing on the floor beside me eating pieces of an apple. I can vividly remember the bright red skin of the piece that he started to choke on, completely blocked his airway and caused his whole head to turn red, his eyes to widen, and I witnessed my sons panicked thrashing as I jumped up out of bed to grab him and begin the Heimlich. All of a sudden there were pillows on the floor, it is dark and Elba must have slipped around the corner when I was getting up because now he is gone! I'm shaking with adrenaline, and flinging the pillows on the ground around, maybe he is under one? I flipped the light on and was trying to keep myself from throwing up so I could find Elba...good lord, he was choking and might die soon! I couldn't find him, he had disappeared. I'm now aware that Lou is sitting up in bed looking at me scared, "What?! What's wrong?" I can't explain the whole thing, but I'm pissed that he isn't looking for Elba too. "I can't...I can't...I can't find it" is what I think I said. "What? What can't you find?" he asked, and it was actually him that brought me back to reality and made me realize that Elba was fine, in bed asleep and I had been too. I was shaking so bad I thought I might fall over, so I remember squatting down and getting on the floor and then just laughing at the realization. Lou told me that he had woken up not by the commotion or the light being turned on, but rather by my blood curdling scream. I don't remember screaming at any point. I think I woke up when I was getting out of bed, but I'm honestly not sure...I was never aware that I woke up, that anything had changed, and I was so disoriented that I didn't for a second realize that the continuity of Elba missing didn't make sense. It was so real....and so very scary.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
16 MONTHS
Time is flying. I have been meaning to sit down and catch up on the blog for some time. The rash he had I'm pretty sure was the soap; now we have some eczema and a yeast rash currently to work on and makes things interesting. Crawling is so out these days; I can't remember the last time I saw him crawl. He has taken now to running; he likes it when I comment on how fast he goes. It's the little things. He is talking a lot now too. We saw my mom the other day, and he said 'Grandma'. When he isn't making understandable words (which unless he repeats something I said, that is the case) he is full of gobblygook; it is so cute. Favorites are to read stories and not so favorite is eating. I think he must be eating a lot at lunch at daycare because dinner is generally very limited. He picks and then throws his food on the floor, the universal sign for all done. Even though he can say all done, that is the preferred method for hasty removal of the chair.
I really need to get pictures off my camera and get better at taking them. The first 6 months I took pictures of everything and now I forget to bring the camera, forget to take pictures if I do, or forgot to change the battery pack. I was able to snap a few when we went trick or treating at my aunt's with her kids before the battery died. Elba dressed up as a bee and I used a previous year's Raggedy Ann costume. I had no intention of dressing up, but then I had a work event that I had to so thankfully my costume wasn't too inaccessible.
My current employer's insurance is ridiculously expensive to add a dependent ($40 min for me, but with a child $240 min)! So, I put him on the state's All Kids program. I make too much and have to pay $40/month for it, but that is much more reasonable. He got a TB test the other day when I brought him in the yeast rash and shots. But this doctor doesn't do 15 months shots and on their time line he was up to date (?) so I have to bring him next month instead. Well and tomorrow to check the TB (it's fine).
I'm still just totally wiped out by the end of the day...I don't think that is gonna change for a while unfortunately. I haven't been taking my thyroid pills as I should or drinking enough water. I'm sure that would help and I'm gonna try harder. Because I'm so busy during the day and then with Elba at night, I pretty much have no desire to look at any kind of screen in the evening and I've taken to reading, which I've always said I need to do more of anyway. It is my relaxing time. I wish I had the energy or motivation to work out. I think I really had it right in Michigan by going to the gym directly after work. Elba has been going to bed earlier, sometimes as early as 6:30 or 7, but generally 7:30pm. I don't think if I went to gym after work I'd be happy about the time spent with him though. I leave work between 5-6pm, so you do the math on how much QT I'm getting with him during the week. That stinks, but also why I cherish the weekends.
Since moving, I've been out to Michigan now twice for Mitch and his family to spend time with him. I'll be honest, it sucks. It sucks having to give up a weekend a month with Elba when I already have so little time with him. It sucks more to drive 10 hours once a month. I'm going again for November and Christmas. Mitch was supposed to come out in November but he can't take off work. I swore that I wasn't going to, but I feel guilty for Elba and I don't want him to not see them for two months. That is a long time for such a young age. I'm putting my foot down on January though...and I hate driving in snow/bad weather. I will pick anyone up at the train station, but I just am not comfortable making the drive in dangerous conditions. I'm sure that will be fine. Mitch didn't pressure me about November, it was my choice to go. If the weather is okay then I'd rather go now than when I really don't feel it is safe. Mitch and my relationship and communication have been very good. I even stayed over there last time I was out. I tried to occupy myself doing things and being away during the day. Elba is clingy and a bit of a Momma's boy if I'm around and I wanted them to enjoy their time together. It was nice to have time to myself and get some things done. I'm thinking of getting a massage and doing some Christmas shopping this next trip.
Okay, I'm just itching to get off the computer and I don't have much else to report on. Everything at work is great as well as things with Lou. He is working two part time jobs at the moment and hoping something will turn into full time. I'm just glad he found work and he is saving up for school next semester. It's a little bit of a grind right now, but I don't mind it; nothing is too difficult or stressful. It is actually kind of a peaceful routine we have going.
I really need to get pictures off my camera and get better at taking them. The first 6 months I took pictures of everything and now I forget to bring the camera, forget to take pictures if I do, or forgot to change the battery pack. I was able to snap a few when we went trick or treating at my aunt's with her kids before the battery died. Elba dressed up as a bee and I used a previous year's Raggedy Ann costume. I had no intention of dressing up, but then I had a work event that I had to so thankfully my costume wasn't too inaccessible.
My current employer's insurance is ridiculously expensive to add a dependent ($40 min for me, but with a child $240 min)! So, I put him on the state's All Kids program. I make too much and have to pay $40/month for it, but that is much more reasonable. He got a TB test the other day when I brought him in the yeast rash and shots. But this doctor doesn't do 15 months shots and on their time line he was up to date (?) so I have to bring him next month instead. Well and tomorrow to check the TB (it's fine).
I'm still just totally wiped out by the end of the day...I don't think that is gonna change for a while unfortunately. I haven't been taking my thyroid pills as I should or drinking enough water. I'm sure that would help and I'm gonna try harder. Because I'm so busy during the day and then with Elba at night, I pretty much have no desire to look at any kind of screen in the evening and I've taken to reading, which I've always said I need to do more of anyway. It is my relaxing time. I wish I had the energy or motivation to work out. I think I really had it right in Michigan by going to the gym directly after work. Elba has been going to bed earlier, sometimes as early as 6:30 or 7, but generally 7:30pm. I don't think if I went to gym after work I'd be happy about the time spent with him though. I leave work between 5-6pm, so you do the math on how much QT I'm getting with him during the week. That stinks, but also why I cherish the weekends.
Since moving, I've been out to Michigan now twice for Mitch and his family to spend time with him. I'll be honest, it sucks. It sucks having to give up a weekend a month with Elba when I already have so little time with him. It sucks more to drive 10 hours once a month. I'm going again for November and Christmas. Mitch was supposed to come out in November but he can't take off work. I swore that I wasn't going to, but I feel guilty for Elba and I don't want him to not see them for two months. That is a long time for such a young age. I'm putting my foot down on January though...and I hate driving in snow/bad weather. I will pick anyone up at the train station, but I just am not comfortable making the drive in dangerous conditions. I'm sure that will be fine. Mitch didn't pressure me about November, it was my choice to go. If the weather is okay then I'd rather go now than when I really don't feel it is safe. Mitch and my relationship and communication have been very good. I even stayed over there last time I was out. I tried to occupy myself doing things and being away during the day. Elba is clingy and a bit of a Momma's boy if I'm around and I wanted them to enjoy their time together. It was nice to have time to myself and get some things done. I'm thinking of getting a massage and doing some Christmas shopping this next trip.
Okay, I'm just itching to get off the computer and I don't have much else to report on. Everything at work is great as well as things with Lou. He is working two part time jobs at the moment and hoping something will turn into full time. I'm just glad he found work and he is saving up for school next semester. It's a little bit of a grind right now, but I don't mind it; nothing is too difficult or stressful. It is actually kind of a peaceful routine we have going.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Lovin' It
Elba is getting some more teeth in at the moment, and these ones are kickin' our butts. He also recently broke out in hives or some sort of rash that could be a few different things. I started using a new soap (we are thinking that is it) but we also went to Goeberts pumpkin farm on Sunday and there were pumpkins he was rolling around in, hay we sat on and two outdoor tents filled with different African animal (possible allergens) to choose from. He has been around both pumpkin and hay and he didn't touch any of the animals, so I'm pitching the soap and moving forward. On the bright side this doesn't seem to be bothering him since he is getting horribly painful teeth in too.
Elba is a walkin' fool! He rarely crawls anymore and totters around quite well. It is adorable. Do you know what isn't adorable? Tantrums...yes, we are getting there now. I've gotten a few "I want to do this thing you won't let me" full body throwing and screaming like you are stabbing me tantrums. It's quite scary. I'm consulting this years bible, Happiest Toddler on the Block, so I'll get back with you on how that goes. This weekend he didn't get enough sleep (neither did I) and we are all cranky about it. The three of us vowed to rest this upcoming weekend and spend some needed QT together. We moved into the new place about two weeks ago and it has been all business. After getting out of work, taking care of Elba and putting stuff away and getting settled, Lou and I haven't had much time to really do fun stuff or connect. I haven't gotten much downtime or time to myself either, so I'm starting to feel a little stretched thin and am really needing to take some time this weekend to relax. It's Lou's birthday on Saturday and when I asked him what he wants to do he said to just stay home and hang out together. Aww...I can do that.
Okay, may job...I LOVE MY JOB! I really enjoy what I do. It is a lot of fun. Less money, sure...less stress, gotta love that. Funny story; I got a call a few weeks ago from the hiring manager of Friendship Village looking for a Business Office Manager for their new building that would be about 20 minutes from where I live now (same distance) earning about what I was making in Michigan. I actually considered it for a minute; I'm fickle when it comes to money and am easily bought. Maybe not easily, but I took quite the pay cut and the thought of more money now was very appealing for a moment. Then I considered what the job entailed (not learning anything new) and how much I enjoy what I'm doing now and realized that the money wasn't worth it right now. Not to mention that I feel what I'm doing right now is really important for the long run of what I want to do overall. I'm doing really well also. Due to some crazy things the wait list they had here pretty much fell apart a few weeks into my starting. Well, it is right back to where it had started and I've brought some really great ideas to the table that not only impressed my bosses but also got results already. So...things are going well. Life is once again feeling sunny side up. Things with Lou are great; we are still learning to read each other and the other person's quirks. I have to also admit that having someone as helpful as he is; loving, patient and good tempered is such a breath of fresh air. I really feel so lucky to have him in my life and as a partner.
Elba is a walkin' fool! He rarely crawls anymore and totters around quite well. It is adorable. Do you know what isn't adorable? Tantrums...yes, we are getting there now. I've gotten a few "I want to do this thing you won't let me" full body throwing and screaming like you are stabbing me tantrums. It's quite scary. I'm consulting this years bible, Happiest Toddler on the Block, so I'll get back with you on how that goes. This weekend he didn't get enough sleep (neither did I) and we are all cranky about it. The three of us vowed to rest this upcoming weekend and spend some needed QT together. We moved into the new place about two weeks ago and it has been all business. After getting out of work, taking care of Elba and putting stuff away and getting settled, Lou and I haven't had much time to really do fun stuff or connect. I haven't gotten much downtime or time to myself either, so I'm starting to feel a little stretched thin and am really needing to take some time this weekend to relax. It's Lou's birthday on Saturday and when I asked him what he wants to do he said to just stay home and hang out together. Aww...I can do that.
Okay, may job...I LOVE MY JOB! I really enjoy what I do. It is a lot of fun. Less money, sure...less stress, gotta love that. Funny story; I got a call a few weeks ago from the hiring manager of Friendship Village looking for a Business Office Manager for their new building that would be about 20 minutes from where I live now (same distance) earning about what I was making in Michigan. I actually considered it for a minute; I'm fickle when it comes to money and am easily bought. Maybe not easily, but I took quite the pay cut and the thought of more money now was very appealing for a moment. Then I considered what the job entailed (not learning anything new) and how much I enjoy what I'm doing now and realized that the money wasn't worth it right now. Not to mention that I feel what I'm doing right now is really important for the long run of what I want to do overall. I'm doing really well also. Due to some crazy things the wait list they had here pretty much fell apart a few weeks into my starting. Well, it is right back to where it had started and I've brought some really great ideas to the table that not only impressed my bosses but also got results already. So...things are going well. Life is once again feeling sunny side up. Things with Lou are great; we are still learning to read each other and the other person's quirks. I have to also admit that having someone as helpful as he is; loving, patient and good tempered is such a breath of fresh air. I really feel so lucky to have him in my life and as a partner.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
New Beginnings
But let me back up a second. The tubing trip was fun. Cristy's visit was a blast and a little nerve wracking. Nerve wracking for two reasons, there was shipping drama when the place she had a quote from fell through and we had to scramble to figure out how to ship her stuff - USPS FTW! Secondly, her BF was being crazy; there is a lot more to that story, but I'll let her tell it on her blog! It was a blast for obvious reasons; it was great to be with my chicken again. We went out to Sushi House per tradition with the group and we also went out to Stiletto's to see Nina Flowers. It was an amazing and beautiful show. It sucks to see her go and I've promised to make a return trip, possibly for pride next year. That would be so much fun!
Okay, onward...I have started my job and lasted 4 whole days until Elba came down with hand, foot and mouth disease so that landed me home with a sick baby. I'm hoping to go to work tomorrow, but he still has some blisters on his feet that I'm hoping go away overnight. Poor little guy, he was in so much pain. I had to take him to the doctor and get Tylenol with codeine for him (and as a good faith effort get paperwork to show my boss that I was for realz!). The tricky part is that my health insurance ended on my last day of employment with HB. I called around and found a clinic that was low cost and would even help me complete the application for a state program for parents with uninsured children. I didn't have to pay out of pocket - score! We had visited friends with a baby the day before symptoms started and we are fearful he passed it along to her toddler, who is started to have some peculiar symptoms herself now.
I drove out here the Tuesday before last and had 3 days to procure daycare. I did so on Thursday after visiting 3 home day care providers. She charges $150/week which is what I was paying in Michigan (the others were $200-250), and is 5 minutes from work. I'm a little disappointed and this might now work out because even though she popped up in my search for providers with extended hours, she says she is done at 6pm and I will have late charges for the occasional after. I get that, but then update your freakin' info! I was hard up though, so I'm going with it for now.
Then I realized that I left my box of very important documents (like Elba's birth certificate, immunization records, etc. in MI). Along with the fact that I only had a few checks left and I also forgot those, I headed back on Friday and left Elba with my mom for the weekend. I'm glad I did, as there was a lot more packing & cleaning that I needed to do and I'd underestimated. I was able to sell my living room furniture for exactly what I still owed on it, so that took a load off. The other benefit was that I was able to see Louis.
Unlike my previous relationship, I'm happy to say that I can fully blog about the bliss that I'm in and gush about my entire life, not just the baby and work parts! So, Lou and I go back about 6 years ago when he was dating my room mate and I was also in a relationship. We had a wonderful friendship, and there was always an attraction there that was sort of ignored because of the situation. But it was there, and it was never forgotten. Well, long story short, it was brought out when we hung out before I left. He is exactly the same in the wonderful ways I loved about him before, is even more attractive, and has improved himself tremendously. If I could make a list of the perfect person for me, he totally fits the bill. Things are moving fast, and he is going to be relocating to Illinois with me when I go to get the rest of my stuff at the end of September. I'm really excited about where this is going and he is the fabulous guy I've ever known...this is serious business!
The housing search took an unexpected turn the other day when I started calling places to set up tours for this weekend when Louis comes to visit. Everywhere I called was reporting to me that they had NO VACANCY until maybe October, but maybe not until even later. I hadn't expected this, although I should have. Not only do most communities try to have their leases expire in the summer (when it is easier to fill), but with the housing market doing so poorly, that means apartments should be doing well. That is an understatement. I was shocked - Nothing?! I called a place that had an ad in the newspaper and she had 3 one bedroom apartments left. I got in my car, toured all 3 and picked one! I really wanted to do this part with Louis, but he said he understood too that it had to be done. Oh and yeah...a one bedroom. This will be a fun year! :) Taking a pay cut, having a huge car payment, hospital bills, and still repaying my student loans blows. I should be able to shovel out some this year though now!
My aunt and uncle are going to be disappointed. I'm staying with them right now (well, my Mom's at the moment so we don't pass along Elba's sickness to his 2 year old cousin) since I'm still paying rent in Michigan for August & September. They said I should stay there as long as I can to save money. I agree, this is a fantastic idea, but after doing the math it isn't that much of a savings in comparison to having my own established home. Okay, so I will be paying $450 for rent and utilities per month. If I stayed with aunt and uncle I need a storage unit for my stuff ($60/month average) and I'm driving 25 miles per day more ($120/month in gas). I'd also need to rent another truck when it was time to move from storage to the apartment. So, really the cost to move out is $270/month and I get back about 20 hours per month (40 minutes per day) of drive time. Elba also gets his own bedroom (yes, he is getting the huge bedroom to himself) and we can both sleep better. He wakes during the night and makes normal cries out, etc. but then I'm laying there listening to him debating if he is just fussing or do I need to do something. Whereas in his own room I think those small wakings I wouldn't even notice. I just feel like this is also a lot of change for him and I want to get him into a stable home that isn't going to change. I've delayed weaning from the bottle for this reason as well. He doesn't have any security objects so I can't take away his one favorite yet.
I've been through 4 days of training and I like it so far. I'm eager to get back to work, get fully trained and start doing my job.
Last but certainly not least - Elba walked today! He and I were sitting outside my Mom's house and he just stood right up and took about ten steps before going back down to crawl to the plant he wanted to inspect. They were wobbly, but he was on grass. He won't do it again for me, so I'm wondering if he has been secretly walking for a while now and forgot I was watching. Well, I'm counting it as first steps today although he has taken 1-3 steps before a few times. This was an official walking sited!
Oh, I haven't updated weight in a while. I think I've gained a little (maybe 5 lbs since being back in Illinois not being able to work out really and eating crappy). Working out at the gym in MI really did a lot for toning and making me feel great. But I think it was going back on Weight Watchers that really started having results (getting my points tracker out again now)! I'm down to 187 - that is 23 lbs less than pre-pregnancy. My clothes fit great and even are getting a little loose on me. Another ten and I think I'll have to start buying some new clothes. People have noticed and comment about how great I'm looking, which is an amazing incentive to keep up the good work. I only notice a little, but I love seeing the numbers keep going down on the scale...what a Choleric I am to love the challenge!
Okay, that is enough...I'm beat and ready for bed. It's been a crazy time lately and I will hopefully update again when I'm settled into the new place.
Okay, onward...I have started my job and lasted 4 whole days until Elba came down with hand, foot and mouth disease so that landed me home with a sick baby. I'm hoping to go to work tomorrow, but he still has some blisters on his feet that I'm hoping go away overnight. Poor little guy, he was in so much pain. I had to take him to the doctor and get Tylenol with codeine for him (and as a good faith effort get paperwork to show my boss that I was for realz!). The tricky part is that my health insurance ended on my last day of employment with HB. I called around and found a clinic that was low cost and would even help me complete the application for a state program for parents with uninsured children. I didn't have to pay out of pocket - score! We had visited friends with a baby the day before symptoms started and we are fearful he passed it along to her toddler, who is started to have some peculiar symptoms herself now.
I drove out here the Tuesday before last and had 3 days to procure daycare. I did so on Thursday after visiting 3 home day care providers. She charges $150/week which is what I was paying in Michigan (the others were $200-250), and is 5 minutes from work. I'm a little disappointed and this might now work out because even though she popped up in my search for providers with extended hours, she says she is done at 6pm and I will have late charges for the occasional after. I get that, but then update your freakin' info! I was hard up though, so I'm going with it for now.
Then I realized that I left my box of very important documents (like Elba's birth certificate, immunization records, etc. in MI). Along with the fact that I only had a few checks left and I also forgot those, I headed back on Friday and left Elba with my mom for the weekend. I'm glad I did, as there was a lot more packing & cleaning that I needed to do and I'd underestimated. I was able to sell my living room furniture for exactly what I still owed on it, so that took a load off. The other benefit was that I was able to see Louis.
Unlike my previous relationship, I'm happy to say that I can fully blog about the bliss that I'm in and gush about my entire life, not just the baby and work parts! So, Lou and I go back about 6 years ago when he was dating my room mate and I was also in a relationship. We had a wonderful friendship, and there was always an attraction there that was sort of ignored because of the situation. But it was there, and it was never forgotten. Well, long story short, it was brought out when we hung out before I left. He is exactly the same in the wonderful ways I loved about him before, is even more attractive, and has improved himself tremendously. If I could make a list of the perfect person for me, he totally fits the bill. Things are moving fast, and he is going to be relocating to Illinois with me when I go to get the rest of my stuff at the end of September. I'm really excited about where this is going and he is the fabulous guy I've ever known...this is serious business!
The housing search took an unexpected turn the other day when I started calling places to set up tours for this weekend when Louis comes to visit. Everywhere I called was reporting to me that they had NO VACANCY until maybe October, but maybe not until even later. I hadn't expected this, although I should have. Not only do most communities try to have their leases expire in the summer (when it is easier to fill), but with the housing market doing so poorly, that means apartments should be doing well. That is an understatement. I was shocked - Nothing?! I called a place that had an ad in the newspaper and she had 3 one bedroom apartments left. I got in my car, toured all 3 and picked one! I really wanted to do this part with Louis, but he said he understood too that it had to be done. Oh and yeah...a one bedroom. This will be a fun year! :) Taking a pay cut, having a huge car payment, hospital bills, and still repaying my student loans blows. I should be able to shovel out some this year though now!
My aunt and uncle are going to be disappointed. I'm staying with them right now (well, my Mom's at the moment so we don't pass along Elba's sickness to his 2 year old cousin) since I'm still paying rent in Michigan for August & September. They said I should stay there as long as I can to save money. I agree, this is a fantastic idea, but after doing the math it isn't that much of a savings in comparison to having my own established home. Okay, so I will be paying $450 for rent and utilities per month. If I stayed with aunt and uncle I need a storage unit for my stuff ($60/month average) and I'm driving 25 miles per day more ($120/month in gas). I'd also need to rent another truck when it was time to move from storage to the apartment. So, really the cost to move out is $270/month and I get back about 20 hours per month (40 minutes per day) of drive time. Elba also gets his own bedroom (yes, he is getting the huge bedroom to himself) and we can both sleep better. He wakes during the night and makes normal cries out, etc. but then I'm laying there listening to him debating if he is just fussing or do I need to do something. Whereas in his own room I think those small wakings I wouldn't even notice. I just feel like this is also a lot of change for him and I want to get him into a stable home that isn't going to change. I've delayed weaning from the bottle for this reason as well. He doesn't have any security objects so I can't take away his one favorite yet.
I've been through 4 days of training and I like it so far. I'm eager to get back to work, get fully trained and start doing my job.
Last but certainly not least - Elba walked today! He and I were sitting outside my Mom's house and he just stood right up and took about ten steps before going back down to crawl to the plant he wanted to inspect. They were wobbly, but he was on grass. He won't do it again for me, so I'm wondering if he has been secretly walking for a while now and forgot I was watching. Well, I'm counting it as first steps today although he has taken 1-3 steps before a few times. This was an official walking sited!
Oh, I haven't updated weight in a while. I think I've gained a little (maybe 5 lbs since being back in Illinois not being able to work out really and eating crappy). Working out at the gym in MI really did a lot for toning and making me feel great. But I think it was going back on Weight Watchers that really started having results (getting my points tracker out again now)! I'm down to 187 - that is 23 lbs less than pre-pregnancy. My clothes fit great and even are getting a little loose on me. Another ten and I think I'll have to start buying some new clothes. People have noticed and comment about how great I'm looking, which is an amazing incentive to keep up the good work. I only notice a little, but I love seeing the numbers keep going down on the scale...what a Choleric I am to love the challenge!
Okay, that is enough...I'm beat and ready for bed. It's been a crazy time lately and I will hopefully update again when I'm settled into the new place.
Monday, August 1, 2011
Fleeing Michigan
I have some pretty exciting news (depending on who you are). I have found and accepted a job in Bolingbrook, IL and will be starting on August 21st. Last year my old boss Shannon reached out to her old boss Colleen who is a regional director of senior living communities in Illinois. She told her my situation and that if anything came up I was wanted to move back home to Illinois. Well, a few weeks before Elba's birthday Colleen called and asked me to send my resume for an open Sales Director position. We had an interview while I was there for the birthday party and I got an offer when I got back home. I accepted and I'm pretty darn excited about it. My next career goal is be an executive director and you need to have direct sales experience generally. I was hoping a transfer might be an option since my current management company is being acquired by another (making it the largest in the country) but they have pushed back the date to Sept. 1 and chances of a transfer happening within the my time frame aren't good, so I'm taking this job. That isn't to say I'm not excited about it. I just would have liked to keep my benefits and seniority if possible. I'm actually quite excited about it. The community is beautiful, almost 100% occupied and has a wait list. Want to hear the best part? Some of things they do for outreach, being a tax credit property are volunteering within the community. Sounds very personally fulfilling as well. I'm a little overwhelmed right now thinking of moving, finding housing and daycare but I'm happy to know that soon things are going to be a bit easier and more calm. The bad news is the job is a significant pay cut for me and the cost of living is a little more expensive out there. I'm looking at at least $950-1,000 for a two bedroom apartment when that is what I'm paying here for a 3 bedroom townhouse. I'm guessing childcare will be more as well. The job is salary plus commission. Estimating my commission humbly, it is $5K less than my current salary. I might not get as much paid off (car, student loans, etc.) that I'd like but I'll still be able to live comfortably. I'm hoping that I can take some growth opportunities with this company if everything works out.
How did Mitch take it? That is what everyone keeps asking me. Well, we had talked during breakfast on fathers day about me still moving to Chicago and that conversation went very well. When I told him I accepted a job that interaction didn't quite go so well. He sort of said, "Hmm...congratulations" and that was it. When I later told him that I would have thought he would be happy and excited for me as my friend he said that no, he wasn't happy or excited for me because I am taking his boy far away from him. Okay...so that is how he is taking it. I'm hoping that when we move and things fall into place he will come around and be less....grumpy.
In 4 days Cristy is flying from CA to MI for our annual tubing trip (and to get her stuff out of my basement). I'm so excited to see her and can't wait! Yeah, so I went ahead and planned the last tubing trip for me likely. We have a smaller turnout than normal, but it should be fun nonetheless. Nate is coming out too...so that should be interesting. I'm very excited to see him as well. We also have Mitch, Justin and Jesse, Anne, Laura, Angie and Andrew.
Both birthday parties went very well. We did one party at Janet's and then one at my Mom's house the weekend after his bday. He held it together while and didn't meltdown so that was great. Both parties started at 2pm and wrapped up by 6ish. During our last pediatrician appointment (12 months) I asked for the next 'magic book' suggestion. I explained that Healthy Sleep Habits Happy Child was the magic book that got me through once I understood sleep, colic and all that. So, I've downloaded Happiest Toddler on the Block to the Kindle and have started that one. I'm only maybe 20 pages in, but so far very good. It talks about how your toddler is more of a 'cave child' and not to think of them as 'little people' because they aren't. I like it...Okay, well the boy is going to wake up soon and we have a day off planned that we will need to get on.
How did Mitch take it? That is what everyone keeps asking me. Well, we had talked during breakfast on fathers day about me still moving to Chicago and that conversation went very well. When I told him I accepted a job that interaction didn't quite go so well. He sort of said, "Hmm...congratulations" and that was it. When I later told him that I would have thought he would be happy and excited for me as my friend he said that no, he wasn't happy or excited for me because I am taking his boy far away from him. Okay...so that is how he is taking it. I'm hoping that when we move and things fall into place he will come around and be less....grumpy.
In 4 days Cristy is flying from CA to MI for our annual tubing trip (and to get her stuff out of my basement). I'm so excited to see her and can't wait! Yeah, so I went ahead and planned the last tubing trip for me likely. We have a smaller turnout than normal, but it should be fun nonetheless. Nate is coming out too...so that should be interesting. I'm very excited to see him as well. We also have Mitch, Justin and Jesse, Anne, Laura, Angie and Andrew.
Both birthday parties went very well. We did one party at Janet's and then one at my Mom's house the weekend after his bday. He held it together while and didn't meltdown so that was great. Both parties started at 2pm and wrapped up by 6ish. During our last pediatrician appointment (12 months) I asked for the next 'magic book' suggestion. I explained that Healthy Sleep Habits Happy Child was the magic book that got me through once I understood sleep, colic and all that. So, I've downloaded Happiest Toddler on the Block to the Kindle and have started that one. I'm only maybe 20 pages in, but so far very good. It talks about how your toddler is more of a 'cave child' and not to think of them as 'little people' because they aren't. I like it...Okay, well the boy is going to wake up soon and we have a day off planned that we will need to get on.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
THE BIG ONE
Okay, okay...it was really yesterday.
I'm staying a bit late at work to type a little something because I know I need to update. I haven't had internet at home so blogging, e-mailing, and general interweb surfing and fun having have been very limited the last month or so. I also don't have any TV at home at the moment. This I not only don't mind, I really enjoy it. I watch movies when I want, but otherwise my life isn't getting sucked away. I wouldn't mind a little life sucking internet though. I'm working on it...Comcast and AT&T are on my bad boy list at the moment.
You know who isn't? My birthday boy! It has been a long crazy year but I can honestly say that I'm pretty happy about things right now. Elba has so many new tricks. No, he isn't walking. He is cruising, using the push along walkers and all that, but no interest in even holding onto your hands and walking. He will stand unsupported if he doesn't realize he is doing it. What else? He blows kisses, waves 'bye bye' consistently, says 'ball', 'Elba', 'Mom' and 'Papa'. He loves to read, play in any kind of water, listen and dance to music, swing, and climb the stairs. He isn't so fond of long car rides or having his ears cleaned. He eats everything! We went to the pediatrician today and he is 21 lbs, 9.5 oz, 31.25" and 18" head circumfrence. I need to look at where he is at on the growth chart, but again, my internet time is limited! :)
Things between Mitch and I are amiacable. I think it was a little awkward for a bit, mostly because we weren't really talking about anything. Well, we went to breakfast and spent the day at Kensington park on father's day and had the opportunity to talk about stuff and sort of clear the air. The way I see it is that we have been friends for a long time, and while part of of 'us' were pretty horrible I don't see any reason for the rest of this to be the same way. It isn't just for Elba either; I don't want us to have a bad relationship. He actually really came through for me recently. Our babysitter took a few days off with short notice and I was stuck because I had just come back from vacation and couldn't really take time off. Well, he totally covered the days, figured it out and helped me out big time. We also talked about the inevitable move back home and how that is all going to work. I think we figured out something that will work for both of us.
I know there is more I wanted to write, but I lost it....
I'm staying a bit late at work to type a little something because I know I need to update. I haven't had internet at home so blogging, e-mailing, and general interweb surfing and fun having have been very limited the last month or so. I also don't have any TV at home at the moment. This I not only don't mind, I really enjoy it. I watch movies when I want, but otherwise my life isn't getting sucked away. I wouldn't mind a little life sucking internet though. I'm working on it...Comcast and AT&T are on my bad boy list at the moment.
You know who isn't? My birthday boy! It has been a long crazy year but I can honestly say that I'm pretty happy about things right now. Elba has so many new tricks. No, he isn't walking. He is cruising, using the push along walkers and all that, but no interest in even holding onto your hands and walking. He will stand unsupported if he doesn't realize he is doing it. What else? He blows kisses, waves 'bye bye' consistently, says 'ball', 'Elba', 'Mom' and 'Papa'. He loves to read, play in any kind of water, listen and dance to music, swing, and climb the stairs. He isn't so fond of long car rides or having his ears cleaned. He eats everything! We went to the pediatrician today and he is 21 lbs, 9.5 oz, 31.25" and 18" head circumfrence. I need to look at where he is at on the growth chart, but again, my internet time is limited! :)
Things between Mitch and I are amiacable. I think it was a little awkward for a bit, mostly because we weren't really talking about anything. Well, we went to breakfast and spent the day at Kensington park on father's day and had the opportunity to talk about stuff and sort of clear the air. The way I see it is that we have been friends for a long time, and while part of of 'us' were pretty horrible I don't see any reason for the rest of this to be the same way. It isn't just for Elba either; I don't want us to have a bad relationship. He actually really came through for me recently. Our babysitter took a few days off with short notice and I was stuck because I had just come back from vacation and couldn't really take time off. Well, he totally covered the days, figured it out and helped me out big time. We also talked about the inevitable move back home and how that is all going to work. I think we figured out something that will work for both of us.
I know there is more I wanted to write, but I lost it....
Monday, June 6, 2011
10.5 months - A new start
Tack another one on the long list of 'Amy's failed relationships'. I haven't posted much about the tumultuous relationship between Mitch and I mostly out of respect for him. I don't want to upset him in posting this but I feel like I want to be truthful about a big piece of whats going on.
Mitch was staying over at his Mom's house since last Saturday. We hadn't really been talking over the past week about what was going on, and I thought maybe he was just 'needing some time alone' again or something. He told me this Saturday that he is moving his things out this week and that we are done. He went so far as to say that he would rather raise Elba out of two households rather than one in which we are always fighting. So, I think that is officially it.
It has been a rough year and half between Mitch and I. Well, if we want to really tell the truth, it has been a rocky relationship most of the time. We are very different people and I think I thought that maybe we would get on the same page with what we wanted and be able to discuss the issues when our opinions or thoughts didn't match; committing to figure it out. Ultimately we want very different things and are not able to talk it out. Yeah, there is a lot more to it...but that is the long of the short.
On the bright side, things should start feeling better soon. It is hard doing everything for Elba alone and being solely responsible for everything, but at least knowing where the situation stands is better than constantly being pissed, let down and disappointed. I could rant and rave about all the injustices with examples to justify how pissed I am entitled to be; but then what? I'm sitting alone with a bunch of negativity, bitter with the world? Nah, I can't do that. I have an amazing little boy that is waiting for me to finish work to spend a few precious hours together before bedtime. I have to get ready and move on to the rest of my life.
So, what is new in the world of Elba? I don't even remember where we were when we left off with the last update. He has 7 teeth; 4 on top, 3 on the bottom. I bought him a walker that he zooms around the house in. He isn't quite ready for walking; he prefers to crawl. He smells everything! I taught him how to sniff and now that is all he does - crawls around sniffing everything he finds. He 'talks on the phone'. It is cute - he will even pick up things that aren't' remotely phones (a belt) and try to talk on it. He knows 'fan' in sign language and will find the fan when you ask, and sign 'fan' if I ask what it is. He is eating everything I give him mostly put prefers the food on the tray and not in a bowl. He scrounges for scraps on the floor when he is finished and I put him down from the chair. I let him!
About me; I've been consistently going to the gym 3 days a week, trying for 4-5. It is about to get harder; no daycare Friday, Saturday & Sunday. I also started Weight Watchers online. I had great success last time I did WW - lost about 30-40 pounds so I'm back on the wagon. Watching what I'm eating is having the best results. You can work out like crazy but when you eat crap it doesn't matter. I'm down to 193 this morning. I can tell that my clothes are definitely looser and I'm fitting back into my pre-pregnancy clothes. I was right; needed to lose an extra ten before fitting into my suits because of the way my body has changed. I am getting rid of the TV. I did this once before and was amazed at how I found other things to do. TV is such a timesuck. And right now with my computer being broken (yeah, I'm at work blogging...shhh), I can't go online anyway. I need a new mother board and I can't afford it now, so that will have to wait too. Unfortunately this means that no picture updates for a while too! So, I'm turning off internet and cable at home. I'm excited to see how creative I can get at home.
Okay, need to get back to work, and that is enough for now!
Mitch was staying over at his Mom's house since last Saturday. We hadn't really been talking over the past week about what was going on, and I thought maybe he was just 'needing some time alone' again or something. He told me this Saturday that he is moving his things out this week and that we are done. He went so far as to say that he would rather raise Elba out of two households rather than one in which we are always fighting. So, I think that is officially it.
It has been a rough year and half between Mitch and I. Well, if we want to really tell the truth, it has been a rocky relationship most of the time. We are very different people and I think I thought that maybe we would get on the same page with what we wanted and be able to discuss the issues when our opinions or thoughts didn't match; committing to figure it out. Ultimately we want very different things and are not able to talk it out. Yeah, there is a lot more to it...but that is the long of the short.
On the bright side, things should start feeling better soon. It is hard doing everything for Elba alone and being solely responsible for everything, but at least knowing where the situation stands is better than constantly being pissed, let down and disappointed. I could rant and rave about all the injustices with examples to justify how pissed I am entitled to be; but then what? I'm sitting alone with a bunch of negativity, bitter with the world? Nah, I can't do that. I have an amazing little boy that is waiting for me to finish work to spend a few precious hours together before bedtime. I have to get ready and move on to the rest of my life.
So, what is new in the world of Elba? I don't even remember where we were when we left off with the last update. He has 7 teeth; 4 on top, 3 on the bottom. I bought him a walker that he zooms around the house in. He isn't quite ready for walking; he prefers to crawl. He smells everything! I taught him how to sniff and now that is all he does - crawls around sniffing everything he finds. He 'talks on the phone'. It is cute - he will even pick up things that aren't' remotely phones (a belt) and try to talk on it. He knows 'fan' in sign language and will find the fan when you ask, and sign 'fan' if I ask what it is. He is eating everything I give him mostly put prefers the food on the tray and not in a bowl. He scrounges for scraps on the floor when he is finished and I put him down from the chair. I let him!
About me; I've been consistently going to the gym 3 days a week, trying for 4-5. It is about to get harder; no daycare Friday, Saturday & Sunday. I also started Weight Watchers online. I had great success last time I did WW - lost about 30-40 pounds so I'm back on the wagon. Watching what I'm eating is having the best results. You can work out like crazy but when you eat crap it doesn't matter. I'm down to 193 this morning. I can tell that my clothes are definitely looser and I'm fitting back into my pre-pregnancy clothes. I was right; needed to lose an extra ten before fitting into my suits because of the way my body has changed. I am getting rid of the TV. I did this once before and was amazed at how I found other things to do. TV is such a timesuck. And right now with my computer being broken (yeah, I'm at work blogging...shhh), I can't go online anyway. I need a new mother board and I can't afford it now, so that will have to wait too. Unfortunately this means that no picture updates for a while too! So, I'm turning off internet and cable at home. I'm excited to see how creative I can get at home.
Okay, need to get back to work, and that is enough for now!
Sunday, May 8, 2011
First Mothers Day
Happy First Mothers Day! I woke up this morning to hear Elba babbling and playing in his crib. Mitch got Elba and we all hung out in bed for a bit. Elba was making 'monster noises' and 'getting' us. It was so sweet. Mitch made coffee while I played with Elba, breaking out some new toys I'd bought at Once Upon a Child after bringing in two boxes of too small clothes and getting almost $50 in store credit! One of the best finds is this walker/rider that he is cruising around the house in. Mitch made breakfast while I fed Elba. We showered and now Elba is 'napping' before we head over too Mitch's Mom's house for the rest of the day. Elba isn't really napping. He was being super crabby and should be ready for a nap, but he is up there playing and fussing. He is not having as many naps as before, now we are lucky to get two and never three. This morning he slept till 9am (Happy Mother's Day!) so I'm not surprised he isn't sleeping, but I don't want him crabby the rest of the day at Mom's.
Elba is almost 10 months and I'm starting to think about his first birthday. I feel like a lot of the things I say are so cliche - and here I am, I can't believe it has already been a year. Time has flown by. And my word, my boy is amazing! My life is so different, I wouldn't have it any other way. Sometimes I miss the things I used to do, or the way I could do what I want at any time, but for what I have now I would give it all up again.
I applied and had an interview for an Executive Director position with another company. It was a long shot, as it was for a large assisted living community. I didn't get it based on my lack of experience with the health care side and not having Executive management experience. I understand and agree that I don't have that experience. That isn't to say though that I can't do it. In fact, I know that if I could just get the opportunity I would do a great job. Well, I'm always looking and trying to move to the next step.
Okay, time to get off with the rest of the day - Happy Mother's Day to all the first time and many time Moms out there. I wish I had some heartfelt words of wisdom to end with! :)
Elba is almost 10 months and I'm starting to think about his first birthday. I feel like a lot of the things I say are so cliche - and here I am, I can't believe it has already been a year. Time has flown by. And my word, my boy is amazing! My life is so different, I wouldn't have it any other way. Sometimes I miss the things I used to do, or the way I could do what I want at any time, but for what I have now I would give it all up again.
I applied and had an interview for an Executive Director position with another company. It was a long shot, as it was for a large assisted living community. I didn't get it based on my lack of experience with the health care side and not having Executive management experience. I understand and agree that I don't have that experience. That isn't to say though that I can't do it. In fact, I know that if I could just get the opportunity I would do a great job. Well, I'm always looking and trying to move to the next step.
Okay, time to get off with the rest of the day - Happy Mother's Day to all the first time and many time Moms out there. I wish I had some heartfelt words of wisdom to end with! :)
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