Copa de Cava

Morning New Year's Resolution

2012-01-02T09:29:00.000-05:00

So apparently the general consensus is that I need to be a little more chipper in the early morning! As of the past few years people have always referred to me as an "early bird". And that I am, however no one said I was nice. And the earlier you I'm up, apparently, the "meaner" I can be!

As many of you may know, I have joined the CrossFit revolution and am loving it. I just recently changed my workouts to the early morn before Kingston wakes up. However, apparently I'm not so nice to my trainer :) (my husband).

My (almost 70 year old) mother has taken to CrossFit and training my hubby as well and LOVES it. She came a little early this morning and somehow we got on topic of me (yes I know I'm just soooo interesting) and my early morning mood. When my husband "poor me'ingly" asks my mom "have you ever been around her in the morning?" her response was "ummm hello I lived with her for 20-some years!".

If that is what people remember something's gotta change.... OK I truly will T-R-Y!!!!

:)

Today's Health

2012-01-02T09:24:00.000-05:00

A woman wrote in to the segment this morning saying that her hubby always gets "mad" at her because he always wants to "do the deed", but she isn't always in the mood when she is. And she goes on to explain that she is still really attracted to him, so it's not that she isn't in to him anymore, she just doesn't have the sex drive her does.

According to the Today Show's "Health" segment... woman do NOT compare your libido and sex drive to your husband's! Men are HARD WIRED with testosterone!

AGREED

But can some tell that to ALL our husbands... that we actually really DO love you and are attracted to you, so give us a teeny break!

Morning Fav

2011-11-09T08:42:00.000-05:00

Morning Fav: Charlottesville, Virginia

We were lucky enough to spend this past weekend with our wonderful friends in Charlottesville, Virginia. Unfortunately the hubster had to work but The King and I were able to spend all weekend exploring around Charlottesville.

Side Note: It's so funny how you can change your tune, because growing up I dreamed of attending UVA, because my older brother went there, they had great soccer and lacrosse programs, I liked the colors (blue and orange), and not only was the campus pretty but the people too. Hey- don't judge me I grew up on the "Main Line", how else was I suppose to evaluate a college? However, the path the Great One had for me didn't take me that far down south but instead to the University of Maryland where I soon began to "dislike" (for lack of a more polite word hehe) everything "Wahoo".

We couldn't have asked for a better weekend weather wise. All of the trees radiated brilliant colors of oranges, yellows, and reds. The mountains stood tall and continued on for miles and miles in the background of all of our pictures!

Even the drive down and back was enjoyable. We took 81 "the whole way" with zero traffic and a gorgeous backdrop. Especially on our way home with the fog rising above the mountains!

We spent both Saturday and Sunday visiting 2 wineries in the surrounding area. The first day we went to Pippin Hill Winery and the second day we went to The King Family Winery. Both were kid and dog friendly with yummy wines and backdrops. However, both had their own unique selling points- I loved Pippin Hill for the set up with the wood distressed tables all facing the mountains and vineyards. They also had, what looked to be, a very delicious menu of smaller plates (we just came from lunch so we didn't eat). King Family was neat because they had a patio full of iron clad tables where you could BYOF(ood) and then there was a huge sprawl of flat land where kids ran around, played tag, baseball, pet the horses, or crawled (that would be our King). I mean we were there for hours and he just played and played and played exploring all the new things around him; that is until he conked out face first in his stroller!

Here are the sites for both wineries in case you ever make your way down that way:

Pippin Hill Winery

http://www.pippinhillfarm.com/winery/

The King Family Winery:

http://www.kingfamilyvineyards.com/

I want it.............

2011-09-16T10:14:00.000-04:00

I WANT IT I WANT IT!!

So yesterday in the mail Michael Jors decided to send me his little brochure. Clearly a personal invitation, haha! And I really like a lot of his stuff. What I like is that it's nice looking, fun, but affordable. I am so weird when it comes to buying jewelry... I am really really picky!

But these are my new favs that Momma is thinking of treating herself too.......

Barrel Ring:
http://www.michaelkors.com/store/catalog/prod.jhtml?itemId=prod12640011&parentId=cat36201&masterId=cat9901&index=33&cmCat=cat000000cat145cat9901cat36201&isEditorial=false

Wrap Bracelet:
http://www.michaelkors.com/store/catalog/prod.jhtml?itemId=prod12640006&parentId=cat36201&masterId=cat9901&index=47&cmCat=cat000000cat145cat9901cat36201&isEditorial=false

Belt Bangle:
http://www.michaelkors.com/store/catalog/prod.jhtml?itemId=prod13050012&parentId=cat36201&masterId=cat9901&index=35&cmCat=cat000000cat145cat9901cat36201&isEditorial=false

I still think the ring is my fav though, but FALL IS HERE!!!!!!!!!!!

Morning Fav

2011-09-16T10:08:00.000-04:00

Morning Fav: Intak Water Bottle

So it's been less than 24 hours BUT I am obsessed with my new water bottle already!!!! I'm sure like many of us, I am always trying to drink more water. I have gone through numerous water bottles in the last year and a half because they either broke or got too gross for me to handle! Ever since I found out I was pregnant and while I am still nursing I have tried to have a water bottle attached to my hand!

As I was strolling the isles (OK you don't really "stroll" in a supermarket or department store anymore with a baby, BUT... you get the point) looking for a new water bottle... for me I was thinking the bigger the better, but how lazy am I that I refused to by one I had to keep unscrewing the top- haha!

So I chose one that I didn't have to unscrew, had a spout, but no straw.... and..... I LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!! The water just floooowwwwwsssss into my mouth, I love it! I am already drinking so much more water. Like I said, it's been less than 24 hours, but so far so good!

Morning Fav

2011-06-08T12:14:00.000-04:00

Yummy, Yummy, Yummy, I got love in my tummy..........

According to one of my nearest and dearest I just "had to try TJ plain FroYo", so yesterday I bought it and as soon as I got home scraped some off the top. Love at first sight? I wouldn't say that... but it definitely intrigued me. Super tart but refreshing!!!! So I tried it as a little treat after my lunch today. I piled on strawberries and graham crackers and viola a new fav! This may not be my go-to at night, I'll leave that up to my chocolate sundaes and fudgesicles. But definitely a great new addition to my freezer!

Positive Reinforcement

2011-06-08T12:00:00.000-04:00

It's funny that no matter how old or mature we get, we still need reassurance or positive reinforcement! For example- some people just ALWAYS need an invitation to things even though YOU and THEY know they are invited!!! Or my mom- love her to death, but I always find it hilarious that when we go to dinner together or to a party she needs to know exactly what I am wearing and then sometimes wears something similar. I don't care, I just think it's funny! Same with our hair color... we are both natural blondes so it's not like it matters anyway :) !

But the main reason this comes up is I have had 2 moments this week where this really played out. The first was Monday evening at our school's athletic banquet. We really had a great lacrosse season, but I never could tell what the girls thought of me. As their coach I'm not "suppose" to care, but I'm human... and a girl... so I did sometimes. There would be nights I would call my friend on my way home from practice "they hate me, I can't do this anymore" and then the next day it was complete opposite! At the end of the athletic banquet on Monday a ton of girls came up and were talking to me about the season, summer, "thank you's", and excitement for next year. I mean it really made me feel special!

Then this morning with my son. I'm trying to help him get to sleep on his own.. in hopes when he wakes in the middle of the night he can self-soothe himself back to sleep. Well just rubbing his little (haha or not so little) tummy and helping him nod off (instead of usually rocking him) I slipped my pinky in his hand and he grabbed on tight and nodded off! I mean come on!!!!!! It took everything I had not to start sobbing and dripping tears all over us! It's so nice to be so needed and wanted and then BAM the next thing you know they NEED their independence and you have to let them take a little step by step- talk about a crusher!!!!!

And as I get older and take on new roles, you realize things are never as they seem and this is just one more thing.... we are still human beings that need to feel good, feel loved, and desire positive reinforcement!

Know Your Strengths

2011-05-16T08:26:00.000-04:00

This is probably one of the best pieces of advice I have ever heard! I have a book for work I have been meaning to read called "Go Put Your Strengths to Work". And last night we were watching the most recent "Grey's Anatomy" episodes where Owen tells Christina that she is a surgeon not x, y, z and she should stop making herself be or want Chief Resident and just go be an excellent surgeon. And when I heard that I thought it was harsh and a little close minded, BUT it is so true! I really do think it is important to step out of your comfort zone and try new things (what I will be telling "little" Kingston when I want him to try his veggies), BUT it's important to know ourselves and what can make us successful and put the majority of our focus on that! I guess I would then change my blog title to "Know Yourself". I know myself pretty well, but I have two friends that I think know themselves inside and out better than anyone I have ever met and I just respect that so much!

I was so proud of myself last night when Kyle said he wanted us to go down and figure out what we are going to do with our basement (yes we are ALWAYS doing something to this house... gotta love home ownership and people who always need something to do haha). So we went over exactly what we want to do and that was that... but deep down inside I knew the one side was a hot mess and it would really benefit from a good organization, WHICH is NOT my strength but it is someone else' I know!!!! And I knew if I went downstairs by myself I would A- have been down there for hours, B- I would have gotten bored and given up, and C- it wouldn't have looked half as good as if Kyle had helped! So we went downstairs and I started going through all the bins starting with our photo and wedding bins- for me that is the kiss of death as I could have been down there for hours, but I wasn't and we did it and now that side is ready for when we go to make our improvements!

It was such great teamwork I was so proud of us!!!!!!!!

Baby Fever???

2011-05-09T13:11:00.000-04:00

Is it too early to have Baby Fever??? hahah OK so don't worry we are NOT trying to add any more members to our family any time soon (eventually), BUT they usually say once your baby isn't a baby anymore you get the itch.... well my Baby is STILL a baby and I can't help but want to jump every pregnant woman I see!

Seriously I get really jealous of all the pregnant women I see and can't wait to be in that spot again and experience it all over again (which it does make me nervous because I was so spoiled and lucky with such an amazing first pregnancy, delivery, and beautiful baby boy that one can only pray to have the same experience).

In saying all of this of course I am teasing because, to be honest, I can't help but feel how am I ever going to love my other children as much as I do Kingston? And I'm sure all my mother friends would say something like "you just do" or "your heart gets bigger", etc. etc. haha! But he is just the best!

We were in church yesterday and there was a baptism, which was definitely a sign, because we have been making some final decisions about Kingston's baptism and it just "hit" me that we are making the right decisions! The little girl/baby who was getting baptized was just the TINIEST and get this her name...... Evelyn Audry.... could you not just eat that up? She fell asleep on her Daddy's shoulder with her mouth wide open, it was just so cute... it reminded me of Kingston when he was TINY haha :) ! That being said... all of the people around us were googling over Kingston (in his Sunday's best of course). I couldn't stop staring at the baby and think how lucky we will be to eventually expand our family, BUT more important to treasure each and every minute with Kingston because it goes by way too fast... so that is what we did for the rest of the day!

Go With Your Gut

2011-05-09T12:59:00.000-04:00

I've always sort of felt this way, but I find it even more appropriate now that I'm a mom. I've always been indecisive and it truly is hard for me to make a decision, but every once in awhile I get a "gut feeling" when I'm trying to decide and when in doubt that is usually the best way for me to go, even if I don't choose it.

For example as LITTLE of a decision this was... we went out to dinner with Kingston on Saturday night. The woman asked if we mind sitting at a two person table because there was no wait.. but if we wanted a booth we'd have to wait a little longer because there was a line. For "fear" of waiting or maybe that Kyle didn't want to wait or that the baby would wake up, I said OK... I should have KNOWN neither of us would want to sit at a two person table, haha. It ended up being a wonderful evening and we could have been sitting on garbage cans for all I could have cared.. but would it have been a bit more relaxing and "us" to wait and take the booth... YES.

Now fast forward to something that actually matters..... my baby! I read a ton of books before Kingston came along and there were definitely questions answered BUT nothing prepared me for those first 6 weeks... even if I had read the answers to all the questions I had it still didn't matter, because it seemed like every occasion was unique. Or now that I have hit the 3-month mark and he begins to change again, then at 4 months, 6 months, 9 months, etc.!! I do truly believe it is good to read and become more knowledgeable, but sometimes you just have to go with your gut.

Kingston's having some fussy time when it comes to napping and he really fights going down. I've tried x; I've tried y.... this morning I tried the crib because he wouldn't go in the swing and let him cry for a few minutes, which I KNEW wasn't going to work for us, but still did it and it ended up being counter productive... it took MORE time to calm him down.... luckily I wasn't upset, but at the end of it all, I felt that I should have just listened to my gut and spent a little extra time getting him asleep in my arms... so for nap numero dos today, what happened... just that and he is perfectly asleep in his swing, like the Kingston I know!

So I guess my point is to keep reassuring myself, any mothers and prospective mothers is that we are ALL different, which means are kids will be different and advice is great when solicited, but we know our children and in the end what is the best for them... so don't doubt yourself and go with what you feel in your gut!

What a Mother's Day!!!

2011-05-09T09:42:00.000-04:00

Good Monday Morning!!!! So I guess it's no surprise that there isn't much "me" time anymore, but somehow right now I don't seem to mind. Hence why I am blogging this AM....

Yesterday was my first Mother's Day and it was absolutely beautiful! It always helps when the sun is shining and it's warm on a weekend, but it was just so special from the beginning. Kyle and I are both extremely busy right now with work and coaching and that doesn't leave time for much else, especially with a new Monkey in the house. So I was deeply touched when they both greeted me with picture albums of my pregnancy and journey so far with Kingston. It made everything so "real". And I have NO idea when he found the time to put it together!!! I think sometimes we get so caught up in what we are doing or expected to do, we forget to stop and take it all in: the good and the bad. The bad will make us stronger, even if we can't see it right away, and the good will hopefully make us appreciate how lucky we actually are!

As special as yesterday was, I think underneath it was definitely tough too for both Kyle and I. We are two people who take pride in our families... two people who try to take on the problems and fix them.... two people-pleasers. Which in retrospect I guess are good characteristics to have, but there is always a constant struggle. This year we decided to do our first mother and father's day with just the 3 of us, taking time for our new family. It was a hard decision to make because we didn't want to let down either of our mother's making them feel "unwanted". I'm sure this will be the first of many tough decisions we have to make, but like my sister in law told me years and years and years ago, you do the best job you can as a mother and you have to put your family first and stand by your decision. Not that this past decision was life changing and I don't want to over dramatize it, but it was definitely a tough one. It was just so weird not seeing my mom at all on Sunday as I am sure it was for him. But I am sure they understood and support us, but we will always be the babies and babies "need" their mommies!!!

Talk about growing up!!!!

I was even more in awe of the people who reached out to me on my first Mother's Day. My mom sent me the most beautiful cards that obviously made me cry; text messages, my facebook friends, Roberta, colleagues, etc. It was just so sweet to be thought of!

Many blogs to come this week (hopefully)..... as my little boy finds his voice (high pitched); celebrating baptisms (made me have baby fever again, eek); and professionally we take another turn.

xoxo

Kitchen Renovations Pictures to Come!!

2011-01-18T07:19:00.000-05:00

I know some of my nearest and dearest friends have been SO super supportive of our house renovations this past fall and winter! And those of you that have seen it have nothing but wonderful things to say, thank you so much! The "hubby" did an outstanding job! I will definitely try and post some before and after pics soon!!!!!

Are We Ever Really Satisfied?

2011-01-18T07:16:00.000-05:00

So yesterday was our first "internal" exam! Not very exciting besides the fact it just means I have hit a new "milestone" where I have graduated to my once a week appointments and a little more thorough exams.

It's funny how being pregnant is a lot like LIFE! Have you ever heard or seen the quote "Life is a journey, NOT a destination"! Well I would say that is (A)- VERY TRUE and (B)- VERY MUCH APPLIES TO BEING PREGNANT. As I look back at my journey you are always waiting for a certain "point" or milestone along these 40 weeks! At first you are waiting until you are "12 weeks" and in the safe zone from miscarriages, etc. and can tell people and simultaneously waiting until your first ultrasound (usually 12 weeks as well); 14 weeks and your "big" hereditary tests; then you wait until you actually look pregnant to others (or you could be like me and think you look preggo at 6 weeks and that others should think so too, haha); then you can't wait until your 20 week ultrasound as you teeter with the idea of if you will find out your baby's gender; then you are anxiously waiting ANY sign that your baby is moving/kicking... after the kicks... is it kicking enough... now you grow tired of the kicks and want to feel the movement... then then next few weeks just sort of wait.. wait... wait.. wait... until you hit the "30 week" mark where nothing cool really happens, just that your week has a 3 in front of it!! YAY!! Then once you hit that 3rd trimester, WAHOOOOO!!!!! Then you wait for the 37th week and you are full term.. and now you just anxiously wait for ANY sign that "is this it"!

You always THINK you will feel better once you hit one of the milestones and that it will give you some satisfaction and peace of mind. YES you do feel the satisfaction, temporarily, but then it is on to worrying about the next thing! I think I have been pretty good about this, up until these last 2 weeks!

I guess if I have any "words of wisdom" it would be to truly truly try and live in the moment of your pregnancy, because as some days and weeks may feel longer than the rest... the next thing you know you are 3 weeks away from your due date waiting for ANY sign that your little love bug will arrive.... and then you begin to panic about how will labor go, will my baby have 10 fingers and 10 toes, will he/she come safely out, etc. etc. etc..... and so it goes on being a parent!

Pregnancy Brain... to the MAX!

2011-01-18T07:07:00.000-05:00

So, it has definitely been awhile and while I still have all my crazy thoughts and ponders sporadically swirling my mind, I just have not gotten a chance nor the motivation to jot them down. BUT, this morning feels much different! I set the alarm for a whole 1.5hrs earlier than usual and got "less" sleep and I feel GREAT... well for now, but I will take it. They say in the home stretch you get a burst of energy, so with 3 weeks to go, I will happily accept ANY energy that comes my way!

I never really thought that "Pregnancy Brain" truly existed until mine has gotten progressively worse. If I didn't have SO much to read about what to expect during my "3 stages of labor", then immediately what to do in order to care for our new baby... from Breastfeeding to properly changing, bathing, swaddling, cuddling, etc., I would go ahead and LOVE to read more about why your brain functions "differently" (to put it nicely) once you are with child!

I have 3 calendars.. yes 3! A hard copy (shout out to MomAgenda... that makes calendars for non-Mom's and I HIGHLY recommend), a iPhone calendar, and the calendar on my computer which is directly LINKED to my iPhone via mobile me and yet I STILL am missing appointments. Yes I'm busy getting prepped for baby and all my work arrangements in order for MPM (boss/dad), but SO not like me!

Then last night I spent an hour making dinner, thank goodness we weren't starving, haha! No, it really wasn't a 3-course meal, it was just waiting 45min for that "special" Basmati Rice, which really isn't that special! Well once it was all prepared I added the "soy sauce" to our chicken, rice, and broccoli, probably in more than needed quantities. As always, I do a little taste test to make sure the meal isn't "poisonous" and something did NOT taste right! Well I guess maybe because my soy sauce really wasn't.. it was WORCESTER sauce!!! GROSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!! Luckily Kyle's meal was semi-saved but mine was not! And the kicker is we don't even USE Worcester sauce, I probably have it because I had to use it as a very small ingredient once!!!!

Note-to-self.... READ LABELS WHILE PREGGO!!!!!

Change, Change, Change

2010-12-27T16:28:00.000-05:00

Oh how things can change quickly.....

How fast does a year go? It always seems that our holidays and weekends seem to go ever so quickly when our workdays could go on FORRRRR-EEEEEE-VEEERRRRR!

Today I was lucky enough to wake up "when ready" and had the luxury of going on with a medium-paced morning routine before getting the work done I needed to. As I sit here with the sun heading down and the backyards and side streets still snow-covered I automatically think "what to do".... I have the hardest time sitting still (even though I know I should) but don't want to do my filing or thank you notes... cleaning is finished; already went to the gym, etc. etc.

I think about this time last year with all of the snow we had and how at this time of the day when I was finishing up my work I would pop open a bottle of white wine, pour myself a glass, and enjoy with some crackers, cheese, and fruit! Ahhhh how amazing! Or I think about how magical it would be to be in a bar enjoying Apres Ski after a "long day" or skiing!

But this year all is different with Baby George coming to town....... I will definitely not be opening a bottle of wine, skiing, or "downing" beers on a ski mountain... which is fine because we have been given the gift of life! But it's just funny to think about how quickly things can change in just a year!

What Do You Spend Your Money On?!?

2010-12-10T08:46:00.000-05:00

Are you frugal? A shopaholic? Do you own a credit card? Massive debt? NO debt?

I finally have a credit card for the 2nd time in my life. I got one in college in order to buy my first Juicy Couture outfit from Bloomie's in Maryland.... and WOW did I learn my lesson! It scarred me for life I haven't had one in 10 years). However, as we are always trying to simplify our life before baby, finish home renovations, and always trying to improve our credit, I finally buckled and applied for an AMEX. So far so good. Fingers crossed. I like how the AMEX will hold us accountable each month.

That being said.... every few months I always reflect on my "financial views". As I negotiated with our painters to come down in price on money I REALLY didn't want to spend, but after all Kyle has done felt awful having him do all the nasty painting labor is just plain mean. But in our "heated" conversation last night, Kyle did make the point that a lot of our house renovations does equal the annual snowboarding trip he wants to go on!

This got me thinking again... how we justify spending our money. I used to be a "bad" shopper and buy everything. Now I prefer to choose quality over quantity. I don't shop often (especially now being preggo), but when I do I like to be able to purchase an item and not feel guilty. However, I think it's funny that if we need to spend money on a new microwave ($200+), a pressure gauge for the shower ($500+), or more recently (last night) a new kitchen sink and the faucet I get SO stingy. But in all reality, if I really liked a dress, sweater (shoes probably NOT so much) I would have no issue spending $200! Not that I would do it every day, but it's just funny when you take a step back and ponder it.

How do YOU spend your money?

Home Renovations

2010-12-10T08:19:00.000-05:00

WOW, WOW, WOW!

So it's no secret that we have been doing a lot of home renovations to our casa this past year. As of late it's been our kitchen... and yes I have a ton of pictures, I just am waiting for it to be complete to post them!

All of our contractors have been truly great (thank you to Service Magic... great company for contractor referrals!!!), appreciative, courteous, and most importantly mindful of our budget. Not sure if it is because they are good people OR if it's because I'm pregnant... either way, yay for us!

But in saying that I am definitely getting a little restless to have a quiet home with zero dust! Soon enough AND it will all be MORE than worth it, so there is definitely light at the end of the tunnel.

It's just funny listening to them from 7am-9pm... whether it's their conversations or what channel they were listening to on the radio (last week it was the Christian channel). As I sit here and listen to my 7 painters working diligently in our kitchen and dinning room chatting away!

I will say all of this work has given me more than a new found respect for labor!

Happy Friday!

Nike Commercials

2010-12-03T10:13:00.000-05:00

I seriously LOVE Nike and Gatorade commercials!!! Maybe it's because being an athlete I love how they get to the core of why we play! There is so much hoop-la around sports these days that sometimes it actually DOES ruin the game!

For example- Lebron James is a GREAT basketball player, but as things go these days- great athletes become celebrities and they take on OTHER roles besides their "job" on the court, the field, the diamond, etc. They have a responsibility to uphold even when they are NOT playing "their game". Like it or not, that is modern day sports and when you sign that contract that is what you sign up for!

Obviously NOT many people were too thrilled when Lebron left the Cavs for the Heat, but it is what it is... people move on and what was good for someone at one stage in the career may not be as they progress or get older! Last night when Lebron returned home to play the Cavs the fans weren't very nice (I'm just glad he didn't get shot), BUT he made a statement "scoring" 38 points! Sayyyy WHAT!

My friend just sent me the Lebron James Nike Commercial. I hadn't seen it yet, but I liked it, because I think it brings you back to... he is a person who just wanted to play basketball and be a hero... a legend... but in modern day society all of the other "stuff" and celebrity-isms that go along with being a famous athlete these days. But HE IS A PERSON and probably deals with internal conflict just as you and I do... The only issue is that he comes off so FULL of himself and I hate that. Is that him or is that the "persona" he is trying to be or THINKS he needs to be. You look at some of these other athletes and you just want to say PLAY THE GAME, but in all reality that's NOT sports anymore..... it's just NOT that simple. I'm not saying is "right or wrong", it just.... "is what it is"... here is the article and commercial: http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/10/25/lebrons-nike-ad-asks-what-should-i-do/.

Now Michael Jordan just came out with a video response to Lebron James, which I like even more: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FmhHIehsvN0&feature=related. A great athlete makes things look easy and those around him/her often forget the WHY and HOW that athlete is capable of his/her abilities. All the time before and after practice. The concentration it took DURING practice vs. goofing off. Making their own way vs. following the rest of the team. All of the blood, sweat, and tears on AND off the court/field. Many athletes HAVE natural abilities, BUT the best of the best WORK to improve those god-given abilities and that is what makes them great.

I always feel like such a "nazi" (excuse my politically incorrect word choice) when I am coaching, when I harp on my girls to focus or not goof off during practice. It isn't because I don't want to have... gosh if they only new me in high school and college, BUT there is a time and a place. And some of their timing seems to be off. I harp on them because I see a talent or a gift and want they to SEE that in themselves as well. BUT they have to work at it and continue working with it!

SEEING is BELIEVING!

Quote of the Day

2010-12-03T09:55:00.000-05:00

"We must be willing to let go of the life we have planned, so as to HAVE THE LIFE THAT IS WAITING FOR US" - E. M. Forster

This is from my "Momagenda" Day planner. I LOVE this quote because I feel like it calls out to me! I am SUCH a planner and as the nurse said last night at my Pediatrician Consultation... "I know all you young adults are used to a schedule and doing things one way, BUT once a kid comes, you have to throw all that scheduling out the door".

Which is DEFINITELY true, but I think one of those things you don't REALLY REALLY get until you are put in the situation. Just like trying to rest up and enjoy your (a pregnant woman) last "days" of being you, being "selfish", resting, etc. because once the baby comes it is NOT about you anymore, ever! And I GET that, but I just don't think it's one of those things you can ACTUALLY UNDERSTAND until you are in that position.

I think it's good to have a plan and be organized, or as I do... organize my life by chaos- it works for me- maybe not my husband, but it works for me and I do it just fine, haha! BUT to be flexible when appropriate.. NOW I don't mean changing your schedules to accommodate others, because that's not fair- you need to live your life too, but to be OPEN to the possibility of change (scary!!!) and that things may not go the way as planned and to calm down and be open to the new path that has been presented in front of you.... yes that is a metaphor!

We will see.. we will see.....

Morning Fav

2010-12-03T09:46:00.000-05:00

Morning Fav: Gentle Foaming Facial Cleanser by Kiehls

Click on the title above to go to the link!

I tried this cleanser out when I was visiting my friend in Boston and fell in love. I am not usually a Kiehl's fan. I LIKE Kiehl's, but not usually one of my "go to" brands or a must have for me. But when I tell you this got off ALL of my make up (including my heavy duty eyeliner and mascara) I am NOT lying!

The wash is super soft AND gets the job done, which is a hard combo to come by! And the ingredients are preggo friendly!

Definitely a must-have to put on your list for Santa or a nice little stocking stuffer for those in your life.

Now my only dilemma, keeping it away from my husband, who just realized how great my "Mario Badescu Pimple Cream" is... I hide it behind my shampoo in the shower (hehe). I'm all for sharing, BUT we are working on portion control for nice products!!!!!

To Scan or Not to Scan... That is the Question

2010-11-18T08:40:00.000-05:00

The new Advanced Imaging Technology has some people's feathers in a ruffle with the invasion on privacy. Me? In regards to "personal space" and invasion of privacy it really doesn't bother me.

But I do get a little skeptical with ANY type of technology and being pregnant... OK, you caught me I still use my cell phone regularly, BUT I try not to put my laptop directly on my lap or belly, and I definitely run and hide when the microwave is on.

You could argue both ways- TSA said it was safe and there are so many other "worse" things out there that my in-utero baby is exposed to OR you could said do you really want to risk that "one time"

So I think as I jump on the plane tomorrow I think I might ask for the heavy duty pat down, who knows could be fun, haha! And if any woman or man thinks they are getting their hands between my bra and back; between my boobs, between my boobs and belly; and under my belly, I say go ahead... try.. GOOD LUCK cause I can't haha!!!!

Morning Fav

2010-11-17T08:36:00.000-05:00

Trader Joe's Cheese Selection!

Trader Joe's has a really great cheese selection (at least at our local Ardmore Market). And they are really pretty reasonably priced as far as "nice" cheeses go.

They have the basics- cheddar, mozzarella, goat, havarti, gouda, etc. but then they also have these fun Stilton Blue Cheese's, and my personal fav, which I cannot remember the name!!

BUT MY FAV T.J. cheese is this softer cheese with cranberry in it! It is SO amazing on any type of cracker. I hate that I cannot remember the name, BUT you will recognize it right away, it's cut like the blue cheese (in a bigger triangular wedge), but it has pieces of cranberry in it to add a little flavor!

Quote of the Day

2010-11-17T08:32:00.000-05:00

I stole this from a facebook friend, but I just thought it was too great not to share:

A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort. - Herm Albright

I really like this quote as I am firm believer that attitude is everything! It is really hard to be positive sometimes! And on the flip side I think a "not-so positive moment" is definitely healthy every once in awhile. But let's be honest no one likes a full time complainer; it's exhausting and personally not very uplifting to be around! In certain situations I think it's better to really try and take a step back and see the positive side of things, which is really hard to do, but great practice!

Now I fully recognize that I am not a "Positive Patty" or a "Happy Hannah" 24-7, but I really do try (even if it's in the privacy of my own home or giving myself a pep-talk.. yes that does happen often) to keep a positive attitude as much as I can!

My sister in-law is a very positive person, so when she calls and says "OK I just need to vent for a minute" or something to that affect I tend to listen more clearly and take it more seriously because I know that she really needs to get it out!!! I love that!

Prejudice Parent?

2010-11-16T13:27:00.000-05:00

I should probably keep this to myself, but it's just too "typical" to not share it with you!

So as I am in countdown mode with my final weeks (I just started my 3rd trimester)... I'm trying to go through my checklists, etc. to make sure I am not "forgetting" anything! Sign up for birthing class, check; Find a pediatrician, looking; Setting up nursery (slowly but surely), check!

After Baby comes I have a few short weeks (depending on the arrival date) with my little lover before I go back to coaching... yes it's a little crazy, BUT I truly love and want to do this and I think getting out for 2-3 hrs a day will be good for me, make me a better Mommy, and appreciate what I have to come home to!

This means finding a babysitter!! I'm going to wait until the New Year to go into full mode to find someone (or some people) as it's a little too soon now, but I don't wait too long as I don't want to find myself in a jam. So I found myself looking through "Sitter City"... plugged in all my important criteria:

Has a background check
Has experience with newborns/infants
Within a close radius
Has own transportation
Will come to my house
Etc.

And then once I have narrowed my search to 1,300 "qualified" babysitters (haha) I noticed after a little while I was going by their picture!!!! I mean I literally noticed my clicking pattern was on the "cute" profiles! Am I choosing a babysitter or a new bff? haha Oh Lordy!

Morning Fav

2010-11-11T12:19:00.000-05:00

Morning Fav: MORNING GLORY!

So I went to see Morning Glory, starring Rachel McAdams, Harrison Ford, and Diane Keaton, last night. It was really cute! Not sure if it's my "motherly" instincts but Harrison Ford keeps getting more and more attractive! Very stunning for an "older" look... I think they call that distinguished!

It was a romantic comedy- that definitely had kept me laughing (and my face hidden behind my scarf at times). There was a little romance but nothing too sappy or over the top. But Rachel's love interest (Patrick Wilson?) is definitely sort a cute too.

The only "annoying" thing was Rachel's characters bangs getting in the way from time to time :)

Otherwise a cute movie to get out and see... if you feel like spending $11/pp!

2007 CT Triple Murder

2010-11-09T07:46:00.000-05:00

WOW... watching the Today Show this morning and they did a segment on the Petit family (mom and 2 daughters; dad Dr. Petit survived) that was killed in Connecticut by Steven Hayes when he invaded their home.

First off, what a heinous crime. But what I think is interesting is how the jury decided to sentence him to death... i.e. giving him the death penalty vs. life in prison.

I don't feel strongly one way or another about the death penalty- I'm not strongly for nor against. But what's interesting is I bet the majority of the time these criminals probably feel "relieved" when they receive the death penalty vs. life in prison. In this particular case, Steven's attorney even said [Steven] is relieved that he received the death penalty and this is what he wanted.

I'm not saying this is the case, but you hear of this a lot- that the criminals feel relief... is this so that they don't have to live a life filled with regret and remorse (even they even are capable of those emotions). If so, do we give them "an easy way out"?

DIY- Kitchen Renovations

2010-11-08T13:57:00.000-05:00

And let the games begin.............

OK so it is time, the kitchen renovations have begun... back to my other blog.. patience is a virtue, right??

I am so glad we are doing this before Baby comes! So far Kyle has done a great job on the demolition!

And the majority of our supplies are already in house:
1. New appliance.. CHECK
2. New Cabinets... CHECK

And all the other stuff is ordered and SUPPOSE to come in the timely fashion of when it should be installed and/or implemented!

As long as the kitchen is done BEFORE (and not one or two days hehe) Christmas I am good to go!!!

Here are a few pictures of the demolition:
(I'll upload the "Before's" so you can see the step-by-step process!)

Friday and Saturday afternoon Kyle tore down the cabinets, knocked down 1 wall, opened up another wall, tore up the floor, and still managed to keep the house looking clean AND keeping our fridge and stove in tact for cooking and cleaning... IMPRESSIVE!

Patience is a Virtue

2010-11-08T13:44:00.000-05:00

OK so it's official I am now "cool" enough to go to the doctor every 2 weeks! Or maybe it's not about being "cool" as it is being in my 3rd trimester! Gooooo ME and Bam Bam! haha!

Sorry I am in total baby-mode again! I just celebrated one of my bf's baby showers this past weekend and it was a blast! She got the greatest gifts, looked gorgeous- glowing from head to belly, to cute TB boots :), and was surrounded by friends and family who just wanted to dote on her every move!! Pregnancy looks great on her! She is in the two months stretch- yay! I love having someone right in front of me telling me "what I can expect" and not "what to do". It's so great to have someone to go through this with! And each time I reach the spot she was telling me about- 12 week ultra sound, 20 week ultra sound, glucose test, upgrading to 2x/month check ups, I just feel so proud... like "part of the club"!

Baby furniture is due to arrive for both of us this week- how exciting!!!

I am just so in love with my baby I cannot wait to meet him/her!!! Like they always say.. "patience is a virtue"... "good things come to those who wait"..I know I know.. but in the words of Veruca Salt (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory).. "I WANT IT NOWWWW!!!!!!!!!!!!"

I just can't wait to...
1. See what child birth is all about (yes I am scared to bits)
2. See if it's a boy or girl
3. Try and breast feed
4. See Kyle's face when he finds out what it is
5. See Kyle hold him/her for the first time
6. Hold him/her for the first time
7. NAME him/her (OK baby COULD BE name-less for a few hours or days.. that is OK)
8. Hold Baby... did I already mention that???
9. Bring Baby home and just love him/her
10. Panic about am I doing things right from the day he/she is born until I die.. and then probably from above (fingers crossed) after that, haha!!!!

Another Fav

2010-11-08T13:35:00.000-05:00

I'll be honest..... the easiest and most reliable for me to answer your question: "What time is it?" is by clicking on my phone, BUT I'll 9 times out of 10 I'll have my watch (GORGEOUS gold Michael Kors) on!

A watch to me, and many others, is a solid accessory. Some like to rely on one and some like to have a ton! I say.. to each their own!

If you are in the market for a fashionable, classic looking watch.... I say this is a great find:
Tortoise Style Watch:
1. http://www.michaelkors.com/store/catalog/prod.jhtml?itemId=prod7670003&parentId=cat7502&masterId=cat27111&index=36&cmCat=cat000000cat145cat27111cat7502

2. http://www.michaelkors.com/store/catalog/prod.jhtml?itemId=prod1620003&parentId=cat7502&masterId=cat27111&index=122&cmCat=cat000000cat145cat27111cat7502

3. Different but classy... http://www.michaelkors.com/store/catalog/prod.jhtml?itemId=prod9810005&parentId=cat7502&masterId=cat27111&index=35&cmCat=cat000000cat145cat27111cat7502

And of course MY FAV.. My Watch:
http://www.michaelkors.com/store/catalog/prod.jhtml?itemId=prod9810008&parentId=cat7502&masterId=cat27111&index=53&cmCat=cat000000cat145cat27111cat7502

Fashion Police

2010-11-08T13:28:00.000-05:00

NOT NEEDED here!

I tend to think that my friends, for the most part, have a great sense of fashion! I love seeing, whether it is "dress up" or "down" attire, what they are going to show up in.. and MOST IMPORTANTLY their accessories! I LOVE accessories, especially because it is truly something I "struggle" with!

My high school friends got together for a friend's baby shower (yay) this weekend and I couldn't help but notice the cute little accessory on her wrist..... I'm not sure what designer it exactly was, but I have had my eye on a similar style/replica for awhile now... they are just so classy!!

The thick LEATHER cuff

Some examples:
Hermes Cuff:
http://usa.hermes.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10202&catalogId=10052&langId=-1&categoryId=143572&leftCategoryId=128521&topCategoryId=127526&parentCategoryId=127565&productId=44967&nbItem=0

A few different options from my friends' fab blog "fthisorfthat":

http://fthisorfthat.blogspot.com/2010/09/wrap-me-now.html

Tory's Cuffs:

http://www.toryburch.com/designer-jewelry/designer-bracelets?viewall=Y

Morning Fav

2010-11-08T13:21:00.000-05:00

Haven't done this in awhile....

This year I was on my "A" game when it came to my fall wardrobe.. I started early! But heck I was ready for fall clothes in July!!

I ordered these in July and they didn't come until the end of September, but it was just in time!

They are the UGG "Jillian" Riding boot (click on "Title" above to go to link) in Dark Chocolate! These boots are SO comfortable (all lined with the "Ugg wool"), stylish, supportive, and go with almost anything- dressing up or down!

Other Favs

Leather Boots: http://www.uggaustralia.com/ProductDetails.aspx?gID=w&productID=1921&model=Amberlee

Leather Short boots/ or "clog like" (in black) : http://www.uggaustralia.com/ProductDetails.aspx?gID=w&productID=1955&model=Lynnea

Pick Me Up

2010-11-08T13:11:00.000-05:00

OK so we could all probably agree that it has gotten quite frigid this past week/weekend. It's so common to hear people complain or comment on the weather... all winter people tend to remark on how chilly and cold it is and they cannot wait for summer, but when summer roles around it ends up being, ironically, "too hot"!!!

I tend to like fall more and more each season that passes! I mean put me on a beach with a cold one in my hand (well not this past summer) and I'll take that ANY DAY!!!! But, there is just something so fun about dressing up in boots and matching (or not) scarves! I love popping in and out of the cold- it truly is a good pick me up! My morning walks have become less and less now that we have our new fence, but I truly enjoy my 10-minute walks around the block with Harley in the AM or mid-afternoon when I need a good "slap in the face"- that cold air and wind really is refreshing!

Nursery Now or Nursery Later?

2010-10-22T08:27:00.000-04:00

THAT is the question!

So... as you probably may know we ordered our nursery furniture, yay! And I THOUGHT I was going to do the room a tan/khaki with some whites and possibly browns/chocolates/espresso here and there. I found cute bedding too! But as the time gets closer I think that I would want something a little more geared toward a boy or girl when it comes to bedding, wall ensembles, etc. I mean I wouldn't go out of control, so now it's like well.... what colors do we do the walls so that it matches the possible bedding.

I THINK I'll pick out my bedding if it's a boy or a girl, grab a swatch, and then take it and see how well it matches our ideas for room colors. I mean NOT a bad "dilemma" to have!

De-Clutter

2010-10-22T08:18:00.000-04:00

OK so how does one go about de-cluttering? Last night I watched a CSI episode where this woman hoarder had her house filled to the brim and dead people had been laying there for years and "no one knew" because there was so much crap!

OK yes that is a LITTLE :) extreme, but I have that feeling that I need to re-organize my belongings! I have been doing a really great job, thank you thank you, in the past year or so (thanks to my husband) about getting rid of clothes after each season that I don't wear or didn't really wear the year before! The TWO places that always suffer- our bedroom and my home office! But no matter what I do I just can't seem to get a system going. I've had "organizers" come in and help me set up systems that we THOUGHT would work and do temporarily, but never end up permanently working! It's so frustrating because those are two places it would be nice to have fresh and organized! Especially now that I am looking to add some nicer pieces into each room I really am examining what to put in there and now all I see is clothes or paper everywhere!

I just wish I could find a way... a system... and stick with it!

Morning Fav

2010-10-21T13:12:00.000-04:00

I love it when I not only find something I love... but my friends too!

Today's find.... Trader Joe's Pumpkin Bread Mix. I made a box last night and ended up having it for dinner AND breakfast this AM. This AM I put a little whipped cream cheese on it AND also tried it with a little peanut butter (for some extra protein) and that was yummy too! Also very good with spray butter to moisten it up!

So I went back today and bought 5 more boxes-the woman behind me definitely gave me a "crazy face".

The thing I like about this bread (because I am usually a banana bread gal) is that you can make it so many different ways.

1. The normal way on the box- eggs, water, veggie oil
2. The "healthy way"- substituting apple sauce for veggie oil
3. The "moist" (yes I hate that word too) way- I added a tbsp of butter (oh no what a sin haha) and for my 1 cup water I put 1/2 cup water and 1/2 cup milk. I also baked at 325 vs. 350 to keep the outside a little less crispy.
4. The "Pumpkin Pumpkin" way- you cut down the oil and add in the pumpkin butter they sell there:
http://www.traderjoesfan.com/Trader_Joes/pumpkin_bread_mix_modification/details/

Advice Needed!

2010-10-18T11:30:00.000-04:00

OK so today I am seeking out advice FROM Y-O-U! I'm not sure if this is a "relationship" kind of thing or a woman-man kind of thing.... BUT.... from my years of experience PEOPLE in general tend to take to ideas better when they are their own. This sounds quite obvious! I know I fall guilty under this category from time to time.

We have a saying in our family: "NHI" which stands for "Not His Idea", which speaks about a certain someone who tends to not "hear" what you have to say unless it is their idea. It doesn't happen on purpose it just is the way it happens.

I think as humans when we are really excited or upset about something it's hard to see the "other side" or take advice or changes to what we think in our minds, mostly because we feel so passionately about it!

BUT.. something that I have heard over and over again.... that most "men" tend take better to ideas when they feel it is their own and as women all we have to do is MAKE them THINK it is their idea.. Umm OK so how do I do this??? Reverse psychology?? haha!!

Has anyone out there experienced this or is really good at it? Any helpful insight is welcome :)

Where is this coming from?? Trying to be honest without too much detail... if you remember last week's "wonderful" post about coming up with baby names, etc. and how much fun it is... well the balloon popped yesterday afternoon, haha! Don't worry it's not completely deflated, just about 1/2 full. We were talking our baby names yesterday and our main list we both really like, BUT there is one boy's name apparently "loves" that makes me want to cry; and then he is not so fond of one of my favorite girl's names!

So he "suggests" (states) that HE gets to chose the boy's name and I can be in charge of the boy's middle name and then vice versa if it is a girl. I have NO idea why but I tend to feel I am having a girl, BUT I don't associate either way because as most of us seems when you don't know.. you don't know! But I'll be darned if I am willing to risk my child's name on a "hunch" or a feeling. Control freak much- umm YES! I think I admitted that years ago! But what I'm saying if there are a bunch of names we BOTH like.. let's stick with those vs. talking about names the other one doesn't care for!

However boys being boys and taunting... I almost proclaimed that I would be sowing up "open areas" and the baby will stay inside, possibly FOREVER, until a different name was chosen.. Yes clearly mature!

All ended well last night and with 4 months (yes you are preggo for 10 NOT 9 months) to go + when Bam Bam pops out, I know we will "just know" and everything will work out the way it is suppose to.

Oh Kids!!!

Big Decisions.... Fun Decisions

2010-10-14T14:04:00.000-04:00

It's not often you get to say... in the same sentence... that making your bigger decisions can also be fun!

Well as my 3rd trimester approaches in Nov (scary!!!) we are making our list of final to do's: baby names, nursery- painting, ordering furniture, etc. Thank goodness for my husband making us start his summer and do everything little by little or else I would be a mess!!!

One of the things I have been working on is our baby's name... and no Baby's final name won't be "Bam Bam", that's just an in-utero nickname as the Grandma's were getting offended we kept calling him/her "IT"!

I really like writing out our favorite names- first, middle, and last to really see how it all sounds and looks! One of my friend's facebook'd me that her friend did something very similar, which it's really helpful! And.... FUN! We have about 5 names we like for EACH gender + different combination's with middle names. And I LOVE all of them... some more than others, so it will be fun to sit with Kyle and narrow them down over the next few months and then once Bam Bam pops out (healthy- fingers crossed) to take a look and see if he/she fits the name we want to give! You just never know!!!!!!!!!

Now in saying that.... I have learned what everyone said from the beginning... don't share your names because EVERYONE has an opinion AND you cannot PLEASE everyone (i.e. not everyone will like your name).... which I totally get now! Everyone has an opinion or a good or bad story of a name associated with someone they know (I do it all the time). BUT apparently now that I am with child, my skin has seemed to have gotten a little thicker vs. the emotional route, which I like (hopefully it's a permanent thing)!

My view is as long as we aren't setting our child up for a bullying or a beating because of his/her name or like the folks who named their Baby Hitler (true story I think he's like 3 or 4 now) then it is OUR choice! Those of you who have had children- you had your chance to name your baby and those of you who haven't... hopefully you will be blessed with that opportunity and then.... I will hopefully be supportive and keep my mouth shut (even if I think your name stinks hehe).

I'm not a "Jr." person and neither is Kyle.... so that eliminates that. And we tend to like "different" or maybe a little more uncommon names, so there will definitely be some "ugh's and ah's'" along the way. But for now I am OK as long as those around us shower our baby with love!!!

Morning Fav

2010-10-11T13:43:00.000-04:00

"There's No Place Like Home"

It's funny how we all go through different phases of our lives... some we like to replay over and over again in our minds and others we wish we COULD forget!

I LOVE to travel... always have and always will! I was lucky enough that I was able to visit different places growing up- whether it was travel soccer or a family vacation I just LOVE it! Although I get all impatient and aggravated at other 'non experienced" travelers and rude encounters I LOVE traveling on a plane... the whole process about packing, going to the airport, checking in and within hours being at your final destination!

This past week I was in Panama for work and it truly was a great work week! I used to LOVE LOVE LOVE traveling to Panama and my trips (week long) always seemed to short- meeting to meeting; one amazing dinner after the next, entertaining clients and being entertained, dressing up for work, etc.! I was definitely impressed with my energy level this trip (higher than I thought for being preggo), BUT it just wasn't the same as it used to be. I kept wanting to be home and with my family. I couldn't get home to our house, my husband, my puppa, our friends, and fall weather quick enough! That's not to say I don't enjoy going down there.. it's just different this time round.... I really like being home here with my family and friends!

AND it was an additional bonus that Baby "Bam Bam" started kicking last week!!! And so I got to show Kyle this new milestone!

Belly Bump

2010-09-29T14:32:00.000-04:00

OK so I didn't want to do this on facebook and I'm not sure there is a huge difference between doing it on my blog but I wanted to do a little time line of the baby growing! I am so lucky that I have had a wonderful experience so far. And I can only hope that going forward continues to be as "enjoyable" and amazing through the rest of my pregnancy, labor, and the baby's life! All we can wish for is a healthy, safe baby!!!

Here are a few pictures along the way!

4 weeks...

5 weeks...

10 weeks...

12 weeks...

13 weeks...

16 weeks...

18 weeks...

20 weeks...

Morning Fav

2010-09-29T14:07:00.000-04:00

Being Pregnant

I know are you so annoyed with me yet? Pregnancy DEFINITELY has its UPS and DOWNS trust me. I may not have experienced everything first hand but a lot of my closest friends have and I can tell you there are joys and triumphs and scares and horrors! The most that we can wish for is that "God" or whomever/whatever you believe in can help keep you and your baby healthy and safe!

Yesterday we had our big "halfway" ultrasound and it was so amazing! Now my sonograms didn't come out that great but the whole experience watching the screen as they try and get the measurements and little Babe to move around. He/She was sucking it's thumb with legs crossed. Watching the heart beat flutter rapidly, throwing a punch or a kick here and there. They now give you a 4D view of the baby where you can see features and that is FREAKY but neat at the same time. When you look at the positive and beautiful side, you just feel so blessed to be giving life! I keep looking at my pictures and realizing there is a HUMAN (hopefully haha) growing inside of me... literally! It is the craziest concept! I keep falling in love each time I look at the picture... getting more attached. Which makes me happier and more excited, but then freaks me out because I want more than anything for it to be healthy and safe!

With 5 more months to go (yes you are preggo for 10 months... not 9) so much can happen and you just hope and pray that everything goes as though "God" plans and everyone stays happy and healthy and safe!

Girl Effect

2010-09-22T12:57:00.000-04:00

My friend shared this link with me and I cannot stop thinking about it! Everyone has their "cause" and mine used to be (and still is) spreading the word and knowledge on preventing Eating Disorders, BUT as I get older and get more involved in other things I learn how many "causes" there are out there.

My family is a huge supporter of KIPP (knowledge is Power Program/Charter School (college-preparatory public schools with a track record of preparing students in under served communities for success in college and in life.) That is a whole other blog within itself, but the more I educated myself, attend events, and get involved, the more I want apart of making a difference.

I am really interested in learning more about this Girl Effect that my friend sent me. Here is the website: http://www.girleffect.org/ and here is the video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1e8xgF0JtVg, watch if you can! I used to do a lot of traveling with work and even though the countries I go to in Central America aren't as impoverished as a lot of other countries (and continents for that matter) you still see SO many people living in poverty and what is the worst is seeing the children.... their little bodies, faces, and spirits all drawn in.... gone.... forced to live like an adult much earlier than necessary and than any of us can imagine! This is one of the reasons this video touched me! The other is as a woman I can't even imagine if I was forced to experience 1/2 of what these little girls go through. When we watch "crime dramas" on t.v. yes it's upsetting but it's TV, but if you really stop and thinking about it, the stories of sex trafficking, rape, HIV, drug addiction, etc. COME from somewhere!

Long story short this is my way of spreading the news!

Morning Fav

2010-09-21T08:31:00.000-04:00

I have so many morning favs this week it was a hard choice, BUT.... my winner is my new "Mom Agenda". I was in a paper store yesterday and was drawn to these planners. YES I do have the iphone and a MAC and mobile me so I could be all in sync, but I swear my mobile me goes haywire every 4 months and sometimes it is just a pain. I bought the cutest Kate Spade planner a year or so ago, but it was too small and I didn't like it so I gave it to my momma. Well this time I brought in the big guns and went for the notebook size planner and am loving it! OK yes I have had it less than 24 hours, but you know that feeling when you love jotting stuff down. I was filling it up last night while watching "House" and was having a ball.. yeah I'm so weird! But I love how it gives me a weekly view and then my appointments are at the top and below is a totally separate section divided into 4 for all my "kids"... well obviously I don't have any yet, but I can put my "lax" schedule, Kyle's events, animals, and then when Baby George does arrive in February I can add his/her numerous check ups and lunch dates with Gigi in there! I hope this actually lasts!!!

And apparently it was on the Today Show... which I ALSO love! Check out the link by clicking the title!

Morning Fav

2010-09-01T09:32:00.000-04:00

Inspirational Quote:

Kindness is in our power, even when fondness is not. -Samuel Johnson

I stole this from one of my facebook friends morning status'. It is such an empowering quote, I love it! It reminds me of a casual conversation I was having with a friend the other day. Long story short I was explaining how I see the same people on my morning dog walk which is sometimes nice and sometimes a PITA. And one morning I didn't go all the way around the block because I just couldn't "deal" with having this encounter (a five minute conversation with another dog walker). And me being me felt so awful after doing that. It was like, "what has this person ever done to me except be nice?". Which is true. It was just at that moment in time I didn't feel I had the energy to spark up a nonsense conversation when I was already running late.... which I am entitled to but still feel bad about.

My friend made a good point- that she feels that way sometimes but afterward you feel bad because "it's not very Christian of you" and it was like "BING" went off in my head! That's it.. that is where I get stuck. I feel like I try and try and try to do "good" in God's, my family and other people's eyes but you have to remember that you are human! Sometimes I get upset and when I do it doesn't mean I am a bad person or you are a disappointment. You don't have to love or like everybody and they don't have to love or like you... and you can not like or like someone for a period of time and that can change... nothing is permanent in life (except we are born, we live, we die), but we do have "control" of our actions. I'm not saying be fake, but you kindness and understanding goes a long way and I bet an even longer way than you or I would think.

It's like when people say "you never know what is going on in that person's life" is so true! When you want to reach across and punch the bank teller, cashier, receptionist, etc. because they are rude. You can get upset and freak out (and sometimes I do) or you can do what you can up until a certain point and give that person a break because you have no idea what is going on in their life. Now if that person is rude over and over again then it's fair game :) hehe.

It makes me think of the girls I coach when I watch how they interact with each other. Girls can be so mean and as a soon to-be-parent it makes me sad and scared if I have a little girl. So many things out of your control. You just hope that she is nice to others and they are nice to her. You hear all these awful stories about bullying in schools and the tragic ends that some kids find.

I'm rambling, which is OK, but I just really liked the message of the quote and wanted to share it!

Small Things

2010-09-01T08:47:00.000-04:00

Sometimes I think "we" tend to overlook the small things in life. I know in our house we get so busy with our daily routines and lives sometimes it's easy to forget the "little" things that can truly make us happy. What brought this thought.... giving Kyle a big hug and kiss before he walked out the door for work. Do you "kiss" your significant other good-bye every morning? Or what about every night? I have a pillow that says "Always remember to kiss each other good night" and it is one of my favorite sayings! I think it is SO true! Or just a compliment telling the other person how nice they look or great you think they are. Receiving little compliments whether you are male or female always makes someone feel good!

Have you told or showed someone how special they are to you today??

Thank You

2010-08-31T10:21:00.000-04:00

I just wanted to thank all of you for reading my blog with an open mind! These are my personal thoughts that I know I put out for the "public" to see, but I really respect and thank you for reading my blog and always giving your feedback!

I just feel like it is so great to know you aren't alone in your thoughts and I love all the feedback I am getting! It has brought me so much closer to so many people because we're starting or re-starting a relationship (of all kinds) on an honest and open basis... because we have something in common... or we respect each others thoughts!

One of the main reasons I also love blogging is by getting my thoughts out "on paper" and coming to these "great" (at least in my mind) realizations, different views on situations, and at times talking myself down from the "ledge" or talking myself "up" to take on a situation. Thank you for always lending an eye and ear without judgment!

<3

Every Step of the Way

2010-08-31T09:58:00.000-04:00

I'm sure we have all heard the expression that goes something like "people come in and out of our lives for a reason"... well I believe that is true but also with experiences or realizations!

For example I am probably one of the most indecisive people I know. When we were at dinner with some family a few weeks ago my brother said "I have never met a group of people that cannot decide what they are going to eat for dinner like our family" and then some wise a** comment like "the UN makes decisions faster than we do" and it is so true!

Part of my indecisiveness is that I want to try and please everyone.. if it's just me then I can make a decision in .5 seconds! I know what I want to do... but if it involves anyone else that is when I start to "panic"- what do they want to do, do they like what I want to do, I don't want to be too pushy, etc. etc. It used to drive my husband mad!! I have gotten a lot better, but I am still VERY indecisive! But at least I know where it comes from.

And I am smart enough to know that "you can't please all of the people all of the time", BUT I can't help wanting to try! But it will and does drive me mad and ends up blowing in my face... I TRY to please people and in the end it backfires... you would think that would be "somebody's" way of telling you something haha!

I think of all of the wonderful mommy role models I have in my life and the one thing they have in common is that they take care of their family first! They have a TON of extended family, friends, acquaintances, play groups, etc. that they all participate in and are committed to, but no matter what they put their kids and husbands first and that is so admirable!

A wise woman once said to me... being a mom is like being a person.. you do your best and sometimes you will be great at it and sometimes you won't be so great, but if you do what YOU FEEL is RIGHT and BEST for your family than that is all that you can do. It is so true... I want to really try to stand by the choices and decisions I make for my family and my little bumpkin because I know I am not perfect, but I'm only doing what I feel is best for little George"y" or Georgette (haha don't worry those are NOT our kids names) and I am sure that other family members, friends, and parents are not going to agree or even approve of my parenting style (you mean spanking isn't OK anymore? J/K) but I can't worry about that... I have to be a strong mom and know that I am doing the best I can. Which means I need to put even MORE thought (if possible) into making sure that my decisions regarding our child do come from the heart and in a "ready, aim, shoot" manner because the results and consequences of my actions and decisions go far beyond myself now!

Just a cool "realization" I have been thinking about that I wanted to share... and hoping that in putting it out there I can hold myself accountable to it! It's something I wish I had realized and been able to adapt to long ago.. having the confidence in myself and my decisions long before I had a child to look after!

A Lesson behind every turn...

2010-08-31T09:39:00.000-04:00

I literally learned a wonderful lesson that I keep learning over and over again but it really is a good reminder that we must remain flexible and how important it really is to "not sweat the small stuff"!

I decided to switch up my routine this morning and start work a little later.. so I got up and took Harley for a jog, walk, jog, walk as I now call it! I started to get so upset because I was jogging SO slowly (probably around a 4.0 on a treadmill) and my heart rate would shoot up above 145 so then I had to slow down... and I LOVE walking, but I had my mind set on a jog. Then Harley started taking up the WHOLE trail lane- hello doesn't he know "stay right pass left"?!? Ha.. and then I realized how ridiculous these things sounded in my head.. was I literally getting this upset that I couldn't control the situation? And I was I really going to let it ruin my whole day? I mean I should only be so lucky to have the opportunity to do what I was doing in the morning... so many people don't have that luxury of time or space! And then I came to two important realizations... #1- what was really going on that I cannot "control" and I am taking it out on myself and poor Harley. Because that is the bigger picture of control.. and I know myself it's not about me not being able to jog or have Harley "share the road"... it's about something bigger that I need to come to peace with. And the MOST important #2- it's NOT about me anymore... it's not about ANYONE anymore but Baby.... and baby is telling mommy to slow down (yes literally and metaphorically)! So I listened... I slowed down... I looked around... and I smiled... I was in the moment!

Weekend vs. Weekday

2010-08-30T13:58:00.000-04:00

OK.. so what did you do yesterday? Did you feel peaceful? Were you happy? Did you rest? Were you productive? So... what did you do?

Now fast forward to today.. MONDAY... how do you feel? Are you happy? Do you feel rested? Productive?

If I had to guess I'm going to say that I bet you feel differently about your yesterday and your today.. but why?

Why can't we make our weekdays feel more like our weekends? I don't know about you, but we are very active and productive on our weekends but still make time for rest. And you do what you want and feel great!

I know there is that thing called a j-o-b and many people don't have flexible hours so that makes it hard to sleep until you feel rested or get done the things you want to do. Corporate America needs to re-think the way it's running haha!

How many hours are "wasted" on people not being productive? Imagine if everyone just focused on what they had to do and when they were done.. they were done! Some days you could work 2-4 hours and I am sure other days you could work 15+ hour days! But what is the point of holding people hostage so they are kept on a schedule?!?! I mean I "get" why it's set up the way it is, it's just an interesting concept!

What if we all worked, but could get our work done and be done with it and get to enjoy the end of our day... even if it only happened once a week!

Books

2010-08-30T13:19:00.000-04:00

How long do you keep your books after you have read them? This is something I have often pondered... when is it "good" and when are they just collecting junk? I'm continuously trying to set up my office downstairs and that includes moving my books downstairs. Now I'm going to be blatantly honest.. I'm sure we all know I'm not reading any books that are making a difference in history (minus Twilight Series haha).... what I am saying is these aren't books you keep to store in your future library in your future mansion (haha). I have a few authors I really like, but I don't think I'm going to read the books again, but you send $14-25 on books now it's hard to throw away!

I know you can resell to an old book shop for a $1 but what else???

How do you handle.....

2010-08-30T12:35:00.000-04:00

Have you ever taken a step back and thought about how you handle things?

How do you act or react when you are happy.. I mean really really happy about something? Do you go around telling everyone? Do you unintentionally rub it in everyone's face? Do you smile and give "subtle" hints waiting for people to ask you how you are or "what's up" or do you just sit back, smile, and enjoy the ride?

Now what about when you are frustrated, angry or just plain sad? Do you go on a rampage? Do you cry? Do you hole up? Do you raid the refrigerator and pantry or shy away from food all together? Do you call a friend and talk it out? Listen to music? Journal?

The crazy thing about technology today is with websites like facebook, twitter, and blogging you can tell people openly or passive aggressively how you feel with the push of the button. Which can be both good and bad. And when is it too much? Too much sharing? Too much knowledge out there?

I am true believer with everything that I have been through that it's really important to get your emotions and thoughts out of your head or else they build up inside and you pop and/or self destruct. I have done that ONE too many times and I'm not going back to that place... unfortunately it's the only place i know how to go, so I have just had to figure out something new. But when is sharing things crossing the line? Some people are more open than others... and those people who are more private can get very upset with you sharing details about a situation they are involved in... even if it's to a close family member or friend... so what do you do then? Journaling is great, but it takes awhile... I love blogging my thoughts, but sometimes you can't get too personal because I'm not going to air my dirty laundry...

I am literally on cloud 9 with this pregnancy. I just absolutely LOVE being pregnant. I can't help it.. I want to sing from the rooftops.. BUT.... I'm human.... I've got so much going on in my life right now carrying this wonderful bundle of joy and you try to stay positive as possible, but let's face it we don't live in a perfect world! Every day isn't going to be a happy day, just because I am pregnant and loving it! I have to live life and fortunately and unfortunately that means dealing with other people, your emotions, and situations that make you not so happy. It's hard especially when your emotions are running rapid!

I know to most people (especially men) pregnant women's hormones and emotions are a joke... but honestly it's sort of rude. My friend put it perfectly... their (men) job is done after they plant the seed... WHICH let's be honest- who's husband, fiance, friend with benefits, etc. doesn't mention or "beg" for sex at least 3-1,000x a week? So... they do their job by doing something they really really really enjoy.. POOR THEM! For the next 9 months the ladies then go through physical and emotional changes. I'm sorry but it's NOT about them anymore.. it's about the "baby" and the momma... and we are giving our partners LIFE.. literally.. hopefully a happy and healthy life... and I would think it would be in everyone's best interest around the baby to keep that baby and momma as happy as possible!

All these emotions have just gotten me thinking. Yes it is all about attitude and it's good to stay positive and strong, but when is that too much? Sometimes you just have to let yourself feel. And don't let ANYONE make you feel differently!!!

Control Freak!!!!

2010-08-25T08:41:00.000-04:00

Do you ever think that you can be the exception to the rule? Not necessarily get away with things, but they some how your sense of control is soooo great and powerful that you can just will yourself to do or not do something?!?

Well unfortunately I fall under this category... I am now entering my 4-6 month expanding and "in between" being cute and really preggo stage! And I feel great and am so blessed to be healthy so I am in NO way complaining it is just so funny as you hear people go through things you think "oh that will happen to me" or "I'll figure out a way for it NOT to happen to me".

I'm in a a really great spot with all of these amazing women and mommies as friends around me who have been great mentors and then one of my best friends is literally due 4 weeks before me so I feel like I am cheating on the "preggo test" by getting all the answers, haha!

For the last 4 months I have been super lucky that the only thing that has grown on me are my belly and my boobies (yeah for a C haha JK in a major way). Starting at week 13 the baby really begins to grow and then literally doubles in size between weeks 15-20. And in the past 2-3 weeks I have really started to see my body change. It's so cool to me (and I know it won't be so cool in the next few weeks haha) to experience this first hand and just stand naked (yeah gross don't picture it) in front of the mirror and just look how my body is changing to keep this little nugget safe! As a friend of a friend said, which was really funny at the time but so cool and true, "I am supplying [my family] with another life" I am that is cool. And as my husband and friends have to keep reminding me... technically my one job is to keep Myself and Baby safe and healthy... Literally!

I have to keep reminding myself that it doesn't mean I'm "weak" if I have to rest for 20 minutes. Or to ask for help... that is such a hard one. I took two big steps this week... when my friend was in town I was having these stomach pains and she kept wanting to help and I kept not letting her basically and then finally I was like OK let her help, you gotta get used to this because no matter what I think I am going to NEED it when baby comes! And then I also gave up some control with work and delegated responsibility to others and it automatically felt like a burden had been lifted off my chest!

That being said... even though you feel great, look great, etc. we're women and it's still "hard" to see your face fill out or whatever is growing on you at that moment. Being a small chested woman who prides herself on rarely having to wear bras, these bigger ladies are getting in my way and are taking some time to get used to. But very in a non-ED way... it's cool to think, yeah this is a PITA maybe and they are sore, but they will hopefully supply my child with food to grow and antibodies to help it's little immune system and that is just so cool!

This whole experience has really taught me that is NOT about control.. you just HAVE to give up that control and embrace each moment because it TRULY TRULY is about attitude.... keeping positive and seeing the bright side on everything or seeing the light at the other end of the tunnel is what is truly important!

Quotation "out of control"

2010-08-25T08:19:00.000-04:00

Anyone who knows me... or at least emails with me knows that for some reason I use " " for ANYTHING! I use them in all the right spots AND all the wrong spots! I was just reading over an email I sent when I was talking about a crib and put crib in quotation marks... but why?!? I was literally talking about a crib nothing hypothetical about it, haha!

What is even more sad is that it actually has been pointed out that I "love using quotation marks" haha how sad!

Morning Fav

2010-08-25T08:17:00.000-04:00

Food/Entertainment: Teresa's Next Door

This Beer Garden is located in the heart of Wayne and is one of my favorite "go to" places. It's connected to an Italian BYOB (Teresa's Cafe) and neither take reservations, but that is the fun part... while you wait you just try the infinite supply of beer they have.

We had some out of town guests in that know their stuff when it comes to beer so I thought it would be a fun place to take them. I think they really enjoyed trying and talking about the beer's they were choosing... I was definitely jealous.. but as soon as their new beer came I stole it for a quick smell and lick off the top haha gross! My other favorite thing there are their mussels!!! I like to get them Provincial.. which is garlic in a white wine sauce... which the husband thought it was going against the grain on the whole "drinking while preggo" but I assured him gave 'em a good shake before inserting them in my mouth, haha!

It's AMAZING during the winter, snuggling up in a booth and their menu is a little heavier so it fits the fall/winter style, BUT the summer months, especially August, are really nice because everyone is down at the shore so you're waiting time is cut in 1/2 at least!

Some kind of wonderful....

2010-08-18T10:28:00.000-04:00

You don't have to be a weatherman (or woman) to realize that rain is in the forecast. I'm usually not an advocate of rain, but today I'm OK with it. I set out for my morning walk with Harley and a nice little surprise was waiting for me.... a cooler temperature, a lower % of humidity, and a nice breeze. There was just this beautiful essence about the morning... it was peaceful... a calm serenity had taken over the neighborhood. And even though it was after 7:00AM I felt like it could have been 5:00AM and all the neighbors were still tucked in their beds and it was just, me, Harley, and the break of dawn. The calm before the storm.

Usually one finds inspiration in a sunny day or a cloudless sky, but today I found my inspiration in a cloudy white layer..... with the daydreams of the fall that is to come.... the change in schedules, the change in weather (less humid) the change in clothes, and that is just a beginning. Although we still have "the dog days of August" to get through I saw a glimpse into the months to come and welcome any change openly.....

I'm not one that does well with change, but with this whole pregnancy thing going on I find myself trying to have a new outlook. Change happens... everything "happens" for a reason and we just have to roll with the punches... instead of sitting back and letting the change happen around you, why not BE the change? Now obviously this won't happen overnight but it might be a good motto to slowly move into.

Kyle and I have been talking for years about moving out to Colorado and finally a year ago it was sort of like "give it up, you're not going to move so stop looking for houses, areas to live, and school districts to send our kids". And it's true... I really don't think I'd be able to take "the plunge" unless the world started changing around me... neighbors and good friends leaving the neighborhood, friends moving farther away, family members moving, or even everyone's lives getting busier and busier as the kids get older which means you see people less and less.... then I bet I would stop and say.. OK things are changing it's an "OK" time... but what's the point in that? I realize that there is no perfect time.... just about the time I found out I was pregnant and 2 weeks earlier we had the "OK we'll wait on kids and concentrate on our careers and travel"... well apparently someone else had a different plan for us than our own.. and being a control freak I'm OK with that.

I'm not saying I'm packing my bags and moving out to Denver tomorrow... but what's so bad in BEING the change.. taking the initiative for once? Am I afraid of falling.. of failing? Maybe.... but so what you get back up... you figure it out! And it only gets harder to "recover from a fall" as you get older... we're still young and resilient (at least I think)!

We only live once and I think no matter WHAT it is, we need to be able to LIVE... There will always be someone else with more money, more time, more beauty, more more more and it's just not realistic to live with the "one day" attitude. I think it's important to have realistic goals and dreams, but there's a bigger world out there than us... Growing up "on the main line" your sense of reality gets so jaded on what you think is "normal" in regards to anything- schools, cars, houses, money, friends, etc. It doesn't mean you have to have a lot of these things to think this way.... but it's your surroundings... and when you walk out into that big world you realize there is a lot more around you than what you thought. It doesn't mean you necessarily change your ways but it's always good to open up your eyes and take a look around every once in awhile! At the end of the day if you have enough "funds" to do what you want to do... that is successful..... if you wake up every morning next to someone else you love and can feel the love back... that is successful.... if you know you make someone else feel loved and special whether it is your significant other, your family members, your children, your "puppa".... then that is successful!

Morning NOT so Fav

2010-08-18T08:14:00.000-04:00

Before I start my ramblings I want to get it out there that I am a firm believer in "to each their own". What works for some people may not work for others. Well that is certainly the case for me....

I changed up my daily face wash for one that had less salicylic acid (say that 5 times fast) just in case for baby. When I asked a few friends what generic brands they used they recommended Cetaphil and another similar brand. I've used the Cetaphil samples before that I've grabbed from my dermatologist's office and wasn't really that impressed. And I'm sure I could have gone to Sephora or Blue Mercury and spent hours looking through all their products, but I figured I'd give it another go.

Now I understand that face wash is different than eye make up remover... but it really annoys me when I step out of the shower looking like Tara Reid after she's been crying! If it's really doing its job, shouldn't it be able to get the remnants of my mascara and eye liner off? After I use it I just don't feel "clean"... I actually feel more slimy... I wonder why this is?

Change up the Cycle

2010-08-11T09:04:00.000-04:00

I don't think it's any secret that our lives... in almost any aspect... tend to run in cycles. Whether it is your relationships with your friends, your family, your "significant other", work, sex life, emotional stability, etc. In this case I'm talking about my "gym cycle". I get SO bored SO easily... so I tend to have to change up my workout schedule every few months or now as my body is a changing every few weeks. I find it keeps me motivated and intrigued... looking forward to my workout vs. "here we go again".

Unfortunately last night I was on the treadmill (don't be fooled I can't run above 5.5 without my heart rate sky rocketing above 140) and my left foot really started to hurt. It was very humbling for me, because usually I would just push through, but I told myself what is the point? And you're really suppose to be learning how to take care of yourself and the bebe so that wouldn't be smart.. so I moved myself over to the elliptical (which I had shied away from years ago) and it was like "waaaahhhh LAH" a new beginning.. I loved it and actually felt more productive than I did on the treadmill...

I'm a true believer that everything happens for a reason. I know that sounds dumb because I'm talking about a gym work out, ha, but seriously... I would have pushed myself to run, most likely, until that baby popped out just to prove I could... even if it was 3.5, but instead I found something else that makes me feel good! Sometimes you just need to break the cycle and change things up... and you might just be happily surprised!

Coffee for a Purpose

2010-08-11T08:56:00.000-04:00

So I know there is the huge debate about caffeine during pregnancy and I probably fall somewhere in the middle... I honestly think almost "anything" in moderation is OK in life in general. After the end of my first trimester I introduced a tiny cup of joe here and there when necessary or much desired! Luckily it's not every day for me... but it was mighty tasty this AM with my salt bagel... yes I had another bagel again today... this time it was a YUMMY NY bagel courtesy of Rebecca from Rebecca's Ruminations (http://rebeccasruminations.blogspot.com/?spref=fb).

But I think I found the purpose of coffee in pregnancy... well I know I am not that far along and this is my first so I won't even pretend to know what I am talking about... but being someone who pretty much just drinks water with lemon unless I'm trying to force down more calcium or fruits and veggies with milk or V8 Fusion that's about it. They say the further you get into pregnancy the more the water consumption will help (specifically with those movements that begin with a BIG B or tiny B... and I'm not talking baby) regulate you. Well.... forget the Colace kids..... just have a tiny 'cup of joe' and I'm thinking that might help in more than one aspect!

Like I said I'm no expert BUT.... I'll keep ya posted!

Morning Fav

2010-08-11T08:50:00.000-04:00

Beauty: Mario Badescu's "Ginseng Face Cream"

It's funny because when you read the product label it says best for winter months, but I'm hot for this baby now now now! I seriously LOVE putting this on first thing after a fresh face wash in the AM and last thing at night! Not only does it smell so good, but it also gets the job done!

As you know I've had to change a lot of my products and I was really nervous about changing my face cream and what that would do to my complexion with all these ragging hormones, but so far so good!

Now there's a thought... or dumb idea?!?

2010-08-09T09:38:00.000-04:00

So I signed up for this website zulily and am obsessed! It's a "Rue La La" for Mom's, babies, and little kids. They have some AMAZING deals!

My issue- now that I have decided to not find out the sex I feel like everything is either BOY or GIRL.. nothing "gender" neutral that isn't yellow or green! Grrr.....

Some of the things are really cute and reasonable so I'm thinking what if I found something I just HAD to have and got it (whether it was B or G) and then if I don't have that gender I can always save it for a friend.. I mean the world will have more babies born!

Is this silly and a waste of money or a good idea?!?

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions

2010-08-09T09:14:00.000-04:00

Wow, this indecisive girl sure has a lot of important decisions to make over the next few months! But, I know it's good for me or at least that is what I keep telling myself!

We're in the market for a new car, which is always fun, exciting, stressful, frustrating... well full of emotions, you get the point! We are both obsessed with the Chevy Tahoe's. And even more recently the LTZ version with the middle bucket seats. The only issue with these is that when the 3rd row is up there is literally 1-5 inches in depth of trunk space! Which is fine for now, but what about down the line? Chevy Tahoe's tend to last awhile so we'd want to keep it as long as possible, so will it be enough for Kyle or Kylie Jr. (JUST KIDDING), their friends and all the sports gear (fingers crossed)?!?

I think it's a little over the top to plan for our car 10 years down the line, but it has me thinking a lot about upgrading the space to the suburban? Is that going a little overboard.. I mean it's our first kid, we're both working and young, etc. do we really need to go all out and get the monster truck? But a ton of people I have talked to about their Tahoe's or Suburbans say it might just be smarter to go for the Suburban up front!

Obviously this all depends on condition, mileage, $$$$$/Price, and availability!

Easily Annoyed

2010-08-06T14:57:00.000-04:00

I don't think it's just a pregnancy thing, because I have always been this way... I really let some people and some things bother me that others would just shrug off and not think twice about or say "it's their problem, why are you worrying about it". And NO I'm not talking about dumb drivers, although I am a very aggressive driver (Momma Miles can attest to that)....

I get so hot and bothered by people that take A-KNEEE-TIHNG to the next level. Whether it is blown out of proportion, upset, good, bad, etc. I just get so annoyed when people are so melodramatic serious... now I am sure my mother will call me melodramatic from time to time... in fact I think she used to use the phrase "Scarlett Ohara" (I'm pretty sure she was an actress), but I'm talking about people that do it for serious... I don't know why but it just drives me bonkers :)

Belly Obsessed

2010-08-06T14:53:00.000-04:00

So I am just completely 110% with my baby "bump" which is barely non-existent to the human eye, but obvi I can tell. And I feel like a total poser (especially when I am in prenatal yoga and everyone else around me is 32 weeks), but I don't care, I love to touch it and look at it in a mirror.. I am just plain obsessed!!!! I'll check back in about 20 weeks when I'm sure I'll feel like a beached whale and be ready to get this "thing" out of me, haha!

Kids Say the Darndst Things

2010-08-05T09:23:00.000-04:00

Last night we had my nephew over and I showed him the sonogram and after we explained what it was I actually think he could tell it was a baby.

So then he asks.... but where is it?" And it was really the neatest thing to explain to him that it was in my belly and see him process it and then semi-understand the process.

Before I get to this next part a little background.... the way we told my nephew, brother, and sister inlaw: we were around the dinner table on our last night in Spain and I said "B- have you ever played the game telephone?" (his response was no...). So I figured hook line and sinker.. this is going to work out great. SO.... we did a practice round and when he got it we placed him next to my brother (who was next to my sister inlaw, who was last).... So it started out "Kiki's having a baby"... and it was so cute when he told my brother.. who was definitely semi confused (huh what?) who then passed it along to my sister inlaw.. it was the coolest thing! So the rest of the night all B wanted to do was pick our favorite names for the baby.. which apparently is a boy, haha! He just wouldn't take any girls names... maybe it's because he already has 2 girl cousins and is dying for a boy to play with? Apparently the boy feeling hasn't gone away and he is just absolutely convinced it's "not a girl". Hope we don't dissapoint haha!

So last night he asks "so what are we going to name it?" and I said well you have to pick a boy and a girl name and he was like "WHY ARE THERE TWO BABIES.. THAT WOULD BE SO COOL YOU'D GET TO HAVE TO CHILDS. And then I had to explain that it could be either a girl or a boy so we needed options... at that point he lots interest.. I guess he has his mind made up!

Wacky Walmart

2010-08-05T09:00:00.000-04:00

I had to head out to the KOP mall last Monday so I thought I would give Walmart a try for my grocery shopping... I mean I see all of those commercials claiming to help me save $$$ a year, so I figured I'd try it out..... it was a good idea although they don't really have too many "healthy" options (i.e. no light peanut butter just to name a few), but strawberries were only $1.98 so you can't beat that!

Anyway I am in the check out line (of the few that were open) and it was going pretty slowly and I was STARVING!!! It took everything I had not to grab the Snickers or Twix right off the shelf! It's finally my turn to put my items on the "runway" (or whatever you call that thing). And let's be honest, it's no secret I have some OCD qualities... so yes I organize my items so it is easiest to bag them (all the bottles go together; the boxes; the produce; the meats; the breads; etc.) but this didn't make it an easier for the girl who was checking me out.. I was looking up, looking down, etc.... all I wanted to do was grab the items and bag them myself!!!

So she goes "girl, you sure do have a lot of stuff"; my reply? "and it's only two of us". She was DEFINITELY surprised by that but I explained how we were fresh out of everything and I was restocking... plus I'm pregnant and need lots of options cause i"m picky... Her response- "ohh that explains it, cause girl I was gonna say"....

So this open conversation makes the woman behind me want to get involved. Just to set the seen she is a rather larger woman with some not so healthy items in her pile (yes I noticed in the 30 minutes it took the girl to bag my groceries).. so the woman behind me goes "YEAH- I was going to say... your pile sure does look a lot different that mine", my awkward response was a soft "oh, huh huh", but what I really wanted to say was... maybe you just not get all that processed food and 1,000 calorie drinks... but I didn't.. and it could have just ended there.. but the clerk goes "YEAH you sure have a lot of snack and drinks"... that was my cue... slide, sign.... seee ya!!!!!!!!!!

Morning Fav

2010-08-05T08:50:00.000-04:00

Food: Bagel Thins

Well good 'ol Uncle Thomas has done it again.... he has now introduced his new "Bagel Things" into my life! I think it's pretty obvious I'm a bagel addict and no the "Fox29 news and MLS fitness" segment last week on "don't eat bagels" didn't scare me off! My fav- a nice yummy salt bagel, but I'll "settle" for a multi-grain every once in awhile.

Wondering through Walmart (that is a whole other story in it's own) on Monday I came across these Bagel Thins, which I was so excited about because I have been craving bagels bagels bagels daily... bagels in the AM with peanut butter and homemade bagel melts for lunch. Yes... I'm a pre-pregnancy bagel scooper, guilty as charged, so this option I LOVE because I get to have my bagel daily and not feel so "guilty".

Word of caution- don't toast them TOO much they harden quickly out of the toaster!

I'm not crazy... I'm just pregnant

2010-08-03T14:23:00.000-04:00

Well to sentimental things like weddings, baby news, natural disasters, etc. my tear ducts are just all dried up... but to random commercials, MLB games, etc. apparently my emotions go haywire!

For example... a few weeks ago we were watching the MLB all star game and they have the "real life all stars", which was a group of people (each person represented one MLB team) and they had done something to help out their community or those less privileged.. They probably gave a 3-5min blurb about 10 of the people and I couldn't keep it together... Kyle was laughing hysterically.. I mean each one I was crying harder than the next... #1- because their own personal stories were so touching but #2- because I was feeling guilty for my life.. what have I done to help others?!? The whole poor me.... get up off the couch and do something with my life kind of feeling!!! It was terrible... what was even worse... sobbing while trying to eat frozen yogurt.. now that's tricky!

Commercials- have you guys seen those "don't feel bad.... just adopt..... sheltered dogs" commercials? I mean KILLER! HOLY COW!!!! I have to walk out of the room it's so bad!!!

Last week I was in a 6:15am spin class..... still in tired mode, trying to get pumped, and Lady Gaga's "Alejandro" comes on. And instead of getting all "gung-ho" pumped I started silently crying about how excited I am that I am pregnant.. haha whack job! Good thing the lights were off and I sit in the corner bike alone!

Or this morning when I almost flipped my lid that he ate the granola (that I wanted to put on my bagel with peanut butter... normal) as cereal and finished it all up and I had JUST been to the grocery store the night before and didn't get extra because we thought we had plenty... but at least we caught it midway and both just started hysterically laughing knowing I couldn't control myself!!!!

Cat out of the bag.....

2010-08-03T14:20:00.000-04:00

So now that the cat was pretty much let out of the bag.... some of my blogs will probably take a new turn.

Very similar to when I got Harley.... just bare with me like you all did!

Don't worry I won't go ALL "Preggzilla" and "Mommy and Me" on you just yet... but it sure is making for some interesting stories, good table talk, and weird dreams?!?

Skinny Cow

2010-08-03T14:07:00.000-04:00

Right now I am enjoying a mouth watering, delicious "Strawberry Shortcake Skinny Cow" ice cream sandwich (although it could be a tad bigger haha)! And I am so excited about all of the flavors, but I just can't get enough! I can't decide whether to savor it and "lick" (I know gross) all the way around or do I just bite into it piece by piece to get the full effect of the strawberry shortcake?

This is satisfying a huge craving I have been having for the not-so-healthy old "Good Humor" Strawberry shortcake bars. I have been craving one of those since last week.. this is a good compromise!

How do you eat your skinny cow?!?

Christmas in July?!?

2010-07-29T09:28:00.000-04:00

You know that feeling you had when you were little... or for some of us last Christmas... when it's the few weeks leading up to the "Big Day" and you just want all the festivities to get here and enjoy friends and family and have Christmas morning so you can go through your wake up, breakfast, presents, afternoon coma nap, dinner, more presents, etc. routine?!?!?

I so HAVE that right now.. I know, I know my desire for fall to arrive "thing" is getting old already (just went fall shopping yesterday.. OK I got 3 things it's all I could afford haha, but what I am talking about is that feeling where you just want to BURST with happiness and excitement?!? I guess it's the idea, for me at least, of wanting to GIVE a present or something to someone special and hopefully seeing their eyes light up when the open it... Or it's getting ready for your own wedding or getting ready to go on vacation or to have a guest arrive so you can play 'hostess with the mostess'.. it's like a count down... as my friend said "put a chain of paper clips together and start counting down the days"...

What a fun feeling!

Commiting to Commitment

2010-07-29T09:12:00.000-04:00

Why is it so hard for people to commit? Now I'm not judging I'm solely voice my opinion. I am definitely guilty of being a commitment-phobe at one point or another... whether it was a date to dance, a relationship, college, or Friday night plans... we've all done it... But why?!?

And in our more mature age, why are so many of us still so weary to commit to something?!? Is it the idea that something "better" may come up and then we will miss out? I know it's said but back in high school, college, and even post-college up until I got married... or if we're being honest, got distant from certain friends... where I really grew out of it (I think... at least the majority of my panic).. It's YOUR life.. LIVE IT! However, either commit to something or don't... you usually know right away whether you want to participate. Just don't leave people hanging OR worse off bail. Obviously we don't have a crystal ball to foresee the future so stuff comes up, no big deal...

Where is this coming from? I was just thinking how I'm "Patty Planner" in an O.C.D sort of way and I'm OK with that. However, I NEED to make plans with people in advanced or otherwise I don't see people or get anything done. It's so easy to get caught up in every day life of work, family, etc. that if something isn't on my calendar I'll forget OR just not do it. I know it sounds really sad to schedule a lunch or dinner date with a friend 2-4 weeks in advanced but it's what I have to do to keep me sane and organized... and seeing my friends... otherwise I'd be on the couch every night with a Hope's Blend in watching "Pretty Little Liars" on ABC Family, which is OK with me too :) .

So how long is too long to plan in advanced? I mean weddings they say send out invitations 6-8 weeks ahead.. I had mine out 10, haha, which is a little overkill but it was summer and I was so excited. What about a get together or party with several people? When is too early to ask friends and family to commit? Is there a section in Emily Post's etiquette books on this. Personally I say the earlier the better- now I'm not saying ask friends what their plans are for New Year's Eve.. but I think asking a few months in advanced if you are planning a get together is good.. that way first come first serve... people usually don't have anything on their calendar so they can commit.... or will they?

Morning Fav

2010-07-29T09:02:00.000-04:00

Beauty: Garnier Fructis Hair Conditioner

"They" say that you are suppose to switch up your shampoo and conditioner every few changovers so that your hair doesn't get used to one product. Fact or Myth? I'm not sure, but I think like ANYTHING (food, exercise programs, skincare, etc.) there is some truth to this.

For my past two shower cycles I have gone with the Fructis products. The prices are much cheaper than salon products and after I use the conditioner my hair is left feeling silky and smooth, which then makes ME feel better. Now does it look silky and smooth? Haha you be the judge! But personally I like to go off of how my hair feels once I rinse the conditioner out of it and then again after I dry it.. and so far so good.

I always like to have a "color guard" in my shampoo/conditioner combo, so I usually use the "long last color" shampoo. I then switch between the "smooth frizz-free" and the "nutrition for dry or damaged hair" conditioners.

I strongly recommend for a reasonable price!

How Selfish is Selfish?

2010-07-28T08:56:00.000-04:00

I try to write this in the least emotional way possible, but it is a topic I have been thinking about for awhile. I definitely think there are varying levels of selfish.

On one extreme you have someone that only thinks about themselves naturally.. they can't help it and most of the time don't even notice they are 'doing it'- talking only about themselves, doing only what they want to do and how they want to do it, put themselves firs etc. On the other end of the spectrum you have the person that is always putting others first and you encourage them to "be selfish" and do something for themselves/take time for themselves.

Taking it one step further... some people are constantly and consistently "selfish" and then the majority of us go in spurts.

Have you ever been called selfish? I definitely have.. usually when the opposing person is mad or in a fit of rage (luckily not recently!). To me it's really offensive, because I do not consider myself selfish at all and the fact that someone else apparently would see me that way is extremely hurtful. So then why do we make judgments on others for being selfish? Isn't that being a little contradictory? I've unfortunately caught myself doing it twice this week. But who am I to judge? I think it's OK to call it like it is but using definitive words like "always" (even if it's just thinking it in your head) is unfair to categorize someone, but we tend to do this when we are upset.

Morning Fav

2010-07-28T08:46:00.000-04:00

Beauty: Mario Badescu Drying Lotion

I just picked up this product a few days ago, but am already loving it. The name "Mario Badescu" sounds so familiar, but I really don't think I had ever heard of the product line until my friend, Ruby Flats, had recommended it to me the other day.

Apparently my new "thing" is that my skin is breaking out.. OK really it's not that bad, however I have been very fortunate to not really have an acne minus my lacrosse playing days! The main issue with the pimples popping up.. I have ZERO self control and HAVE to pop pop pop, which leads to scarring and that is NO good, because once they scar they are permanently there :( .

I've used it every night for the past three nights and I really think it is working. Only time will tell, but I am already impressed! And I thought it was pretty reasonable at $17... compared to everything else in Blue Mercury!

If you are breaking out from sun tan lotion or whatever reason and want a night treatment, give this a try!

Mel Gibson Melodrama

2010-07-21T09:54:00.000-04:00

Is anyone else over the whole Mel Gibson drama? I mean seriously! I am not saying he was right or wrong.. what I am saying is that he is getting SLAMMED by the media when in fact no one really knows what happened.. They are tapes between the two of them when one person knew they were being taped and one person didn't. I mean it's obvious he is having some issues... and probably could benefit from some anger management therapy... but it takes two tango. His wife/girlfriend, who by the way looks like Octo-Mom, knew she was being taped and therefore knew exactly how she wanted to be portrayed and most likely how to provoke him. I'm not taking sides... all I am saying is I think the whole situation is a little shady, that I don't trust her, we have no idea how this all really started, and I'm sure he isn' the only problem...

In saying that... I do hope that he never hit her or the baby!

Wedding Bliss

2010-07-21T09:47:00.000-04:00

So 'tis the season they say... and NO I am not talking about Christmas... although lately I have SO been in the mood for that time of year.. I do get that way, but usually not until mid to late August!

What I am talking about is the Wedding Crasher's infamous "Wedding Season", which we have taken full part in- from showers to bachelor/bachelorette parties to golf outings to BBQ's to weddings themselves! It has been such a blast. Each wedding we go to has been so unique and gorgeous in it's own way. What has really made these weddings has been the people involved! Especially this last weekend of one of my best friend's... the girls she had in her bridal party were absolutely wonderful and we were all just so determined to make the process all about her!

WHICH... if you have ever been in a wedding or close to a bride... you usually know that is NOT always the case! Unfortunately, most of the time, people tend to make weddings about themselves- what they want, what they like, etc. etc. When in fact the only 2 people it is about are the BRIDE and GROOM! However, this past weekend was truly about the bride and groom! It was so amazing to be apart of that! I just hope that if I am apart of future weddings I can continue that tradition of making the bride feel so special and happy that she truly knows what wedding bliss is all about!

Til Ice Cream Do Us Part

2010-07-21T09:31:00.000-04:00

So it's summer time again and you know what that means.... daily trips to the ice cream store... specifically HOPE'S COOKIES or our new RITA'S in town!

I said to Kyle the other day... about one the employees: "I mean she is always in there... day or night".. and then I thought about that statement.. how you are "judging" someone, but yet if they are always there... and you always see them... doesn't that mean that YOU are always there too! haha! The pot calling the kettle black.. I'm not sure if that applies to the customer-employee scenario but you catch my drift and I like the expression!

My fav from Rita's: If I'm in a water ice mode I go for either the Green Apple (so yummy and not tart) or the "cookies and cream ice". If I'm in a gelati mood... I go for the Swedish Fish with F.F. vanilla custard. And if it's an ice cream mode I always get the F.F. vanilla ice cream with rainbow sprinkles.. but always have them let me taste test the coffee :)

My fav from Hope's: obviously depending on my mood... I either get the soft serve (F.F. 90 cal/serving) swirl of country vanilla and devil's cake- AMAZING! It's so rich and creamy!!! And of course my other go to is the BACK IN BUSINESS (well it was last year) Blend In with F.F. vanilla ice cream (hard) and either a heath bar or a reese's pieces cookie! Now you can actually get the Country Vanilla soft serve as a blend in and it is actually much more like a Blizzard!!!

So about two weeks ago I went to an amazing dinner with my girlfriends, but still left craving some Hope's ice cream. On the way into my car my flip flop strap broke- Oh no! However, do you think that stopped me? Unfortunately.. and of course.. there were no spots open in front and I had to hobble to get my ice cream. I really looked silly.. with hair did, in a cute dress.. just hobbling, all my lonesome, to get some ice cream. There was a couple sitting outside on the bench, enjoying their ice cream, and it was obvious they noticed me. About 5 minutes later... on my way out.. an ice cream in each hand.. I make eye contact with the couple and the girl just starts laughing... we both did... and she goes "I just feel so bad for you"... My response?!? "Hey- you do what you gotta do for Hope's ice cream"... it could have been a commercial if they advertised!

Morning Fav

2010-07-21T09:11:00.000-04:00

V8-Fusion

OK not only are these juices nutritious, but they are SUPER yummy too! One 8-oz glass of juice has a serving of fruit and veggies! I'm no expert, but I"m willing to put my reputation on the line and say I bet the majority of us don't get hardly enough servings of fruits in veggies in our day! I mean I usually LOVE fruits and veggies... especially if it's already cleaned and cut up for me :) .... like at a spa, haha jk! But I know that I probably don't even come close to what I should have in a day! I try to do one cup in the AM with breakfast and one cup while I'm cooking dinner. They already have it in "light form". If you live anywhere close to an Acme, they usually have these only sale or 2 for $6 and in modern day grocery shopping that's a good deal.

My fav flav..... the Acai Mixed Berry and Pomengrate!

Cat in the hat... or cage

2010-06-15T14:34:00.000-04:00

It's no secret that our beloved 6 year old blue point Himalayan, Tinkerbelle, was less than thrilled when the newest member of our family arrived last summer. At first he was too small and young to even really notice her (anywhere that was higher than 3ft) and bother her. But as he's gotten older boy does Harley love to play with our Belle.. too bad it's not reciprocated. I have always loved Belle, she was my baby, and often she would lay in bed and even want me to pet her on occasion. However on the opposite end of the spectrum our little Harley wants to lay on your lap and all of your attention from the moment we stop working. Harley is currently on a 3-week stay at camp and has been loving it! His presence is BEYOND missed... especially by me because I work from home so I don't hear the pitter patter of his little feet!

It's quite evident that Princess Belle does NOT miss him one bit.. she has been out and about, laying down on the couches while we watch TV, waking me up in the morning with a prrr, and just frolicking about the house without a worry. Today I went into our bedroom only to notice something quite odd... she was in Harley's kennel!! Quite odd for a cat, but especially her.. at first I thought this quite hilarious, but then part of me thinks... subconsciously does she really miss him?!?

Anyway it's a cute shot (ps don't mind the mess I'm packing and clothes are laid out all over the floor... and kennel hehe).

Morning Fav

2010-06-15T14:25:00.000-04:00

Fekkai COIFF™ Contrôle Ironless Straightening Balm

This product has done absolute wonders for my hair. It has cut my blow-dry time in 1/3 or even 1/2 and makes it so much smoother and way less frizzy! I only straighten after drying for a more finished look!

I strongly recommend it as I feel it nourishes my hair and does it's job too!

Morning Fav

2010-06-04T09:26:00.000-04:00

I AM OBSESSED with these sandals and have been trying to get everyone on the band wagon!! They are super comfortable and mold to your feet perfectly! I got them in April and have already almost wore them into the ground! I got the beige as well as the glossy black! I love them for their comfort and simplicity, but most of all they are like a "cute and classy" rainbow sandal for women! They are around $40-$50 but SO worth it and I literally wear this everyday. Definitely my "go to" shoe for the summer. The true test will be this weekend in DC when I am walking all around.. can they handle the heat and the miles? Survey says.. YES! If your local pick them up at SKIRT while you still can! You can also order online and get at Bloomies!!

If you had to choose....

2010-06-04T09:19:00.000-04:00

If you had to pick a celebrity for your one night stand, a one year rendezvous, and to spend the rest of your life with who would it be?

I've definitely played this "game" before, but completely forgot about it until someone asked me the other night. The question was phrased "if you had to pick one guy celebrity", but for some reason all my female celebrity crushes popped into mind and I could pick all of them BEFORE I could even pick my guys.. haha. I don't think I gave my answers for a good 30 minutes after I was asked! Cause clearly this game is SO real. But sort of fun to think about. It made me think about how I'm not that into celebrity stuff anymore- I used to always subscribe to Us Weekly, be on PopSugar daily, watch TMZ, etc. I mean I am probably more up-to-date than other people, but I'm not really obsessed. Do I think Brad Pitt is attractive.. definitely, but he just fell off my radar when he shacked up with Angelina Jolie.. who used to be my number one.

OK so here are my pics.... what are yours?!?

Men:
One Night Stand: Matthew McConaughey (circa How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days)
One Year Rendezvous: Chase Crawford
Spend the rest of my life: Ryan Reynolds (circa The Proposal)

Runners Up: Tatum Channing (one night or one year), Bradley Cooper (one year), and this is creepy but the guy from The Office, eww gross not Dwight, John Krasinski for a life- he can be cute but is really funny!

Back in the day I feel like I definitely would have picked celebs like Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Pierce Brosnan, Jessica Simpson, Angelina Jolie, Kate Hudson, etc.

Women:

One Night Stand:Marissa Miller
One Year Rendezvous: Blake Lively!!!!
Spend the rest of my life: Jennifer Anniston

Comment your pics!!!

2010-03-10T09:47:00.000-05:00

Everyone knows I'm in

Over my head, over my head

With eight seconds left in overtime...

Thin Line Between Honesty and Attitude

2010-03-09T10:49:00.000-05:00

In a follow up to my previous blog....

Have you ever heard the expression "when it rains it pours"? I tend to use it a lot in my property management, because it always seems that all our properties sit and when one issue starts, another one arises in a different property, then a third, etc. etc. But it makes for a great challenge!

Obviously you can tell that I feel as though I have a lot going on right now... and sometimes the small things can get really frustrating and make me want to rip my hair out or just "give up". It's easy to get overwhelmed in general.

Which brings me to my next question.. if you are feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, upset, angry, etc. you are usually encouraged to talk about it vs. holding it in! But where does that line end between brutally honest and Debbie downer?

Last night Kyle asked me how my day was.. I said "in all honesty it sucked", but the positive side is that I learned something, and I'm home with you. So I was honest, but tried to keep things positive. This morning on a phone call a friend and associate said to me "are you ever not great? You always seem so bubbly".... which is far from the case and if she only new about 30 minutes earlier I was ragging around my office with massive turrets in reaction to something I was dealing with. And as frustrating as that was... what am I suppose to do.. tell everyone I know about it and complain and be in a bad mood all day long? Let it consume me?

Now let's be honest... every dog has it's day and some days we just need to have a poor me day.. but when does a poor me day turn into a poor me week.. which turns into a poor me month... and eventually a poor me attitude and lifestyle?

Is there a balance?

When is Enough Enough?

2010-03-09T10:40:00.000-05:00

As the hours go by I am trying to find a way to screw my head back on in the clock wise direction (i.e. a little tighter). For the past few months and more specifically weeks I have had this overwhelming feeling of chaos and what I think the phrase means to "run around like a chicken with your head cut off" or overloading. It doesn't mean I have lost my sanity, it just feels like I am doing 1,000,000 different things but not necessarily doing any of it to the best of my ability.

It brings me to question have I spread myself to thin?

Some may say yes and others have told me I'm the kind of girl that likes a challenge. As the days go by I see I am more and more like my father. What a wonderful man he is.. but he always has to be "doing something". Which in turn usually affects those around you more than himself, because you get so wrapped up in what you are doing you don't even have a chance to notice you are always on the go.. whether it's work, dinner plans, the gym, etc.

Myself, I have tried to take on the roles as wife, "mommy", Better homemaker, employee, manager, coach, junior leaguer, friend, sister, aunt, niece, daughter...etc. I want to be all of these things to everyone, but when does it get too much? Sometimes you realize it when it's too late.. when you realize your daily chats with your friends get shorter and shorter and less frequent... your weekly play dates with nieces and nephews become biweekly or monthly... etc. etc.

And for me it makes me wonder.. we're not in the "baby making stage" yet, but when that becomes a topic something's gotta give.. I can't be a preggo lady running around doing all these things. It's no secret I'm a stress-ball and I'm pretty sure that's not a healthy habit to have. So how do you let things go and still feel fulfilled?

Ding Dong the Dumby's Dead...

2010-03-09T10:26:00.000-05:00

This is a last minute post as I came across this amazing discovery..... my brain haha!

I was about to post a new blog entry and kept thinking... why is my format still so messed up (OK that is PG in reality to what I was really saying)?!? And I just happened to click in the upper right hand corner of the blog on the "Compose" button and VOILA... I have all of my "babies" back.. I have my font selection and size... my colors... my link options and my picture attatchment option!!!

So I guess it was there the whole time I just was overlooking it... :)

Fung Shui Furniture

2010-03-08T07:28:00.000-05:00

Does fung shui really exist? I'm not sure I never "tried it"... meaning I have never personally put my room a certain way to get a certain vibe or feeling. However, some people truly believe that a room can give off different energy depending on the way it is arranged!

This past Saturday we rearranged our bedroom and so far I like it! I haven't had the best sleep the past two nights and I can't tell if it is because the bed is in a different place or other factors. I have heard before that you get a better sleep if your bed is facing a specific direction (i.e. E to W or N to S) but I haven't researched it enough. I really like the new layout and think it suits our room, but I just hope it's not affecting my sleep and kharma in a negative way!

Sun Savvy

2010-03-08T07:24:00.000-05:00

OK so one thing I tend to pride myself on is my new ability to wear sunscreen.

Confused? When I was in high school I was one of the girl's that went tanning fall, winter, and spring time long. I loved to be tan and the joy of laying in that bad and falling in and out of sleep for 20 minutes was relaxing (yeah I know weirdo). Then I took it to the next level in college and would actually sit outside for hours on a summer day and if my friend and I truly felt we didn't get enough sun we'd go tanning that afternoon after the sun went down. GROSS I know!

Well unfortunately and fortunately when I was a junior in college I was diagnosed with melanoma (skin cancer)... shocking right? And it wasn't til until years later I actually got "it wasn't all about being tan". Do I think people look and feel better when they are tan... honestly.. yes! But in saying that you can still get a decent amount of color even when applying suitable sun protection!

Since I have been coaching for the past 4 years I'm the one chasing the girls around with me face and body lotion getting them to put it on! My brand of choice? Neutrogena 55-70 face sunscreen and I love their Body Cooling Mist... it's a little pricey and goes quickly, but so worth it!

Yesterday I worked a lacrosse clinic outside and it was gorgeous... the sun was out shining bright and it literally was a great day to be outside. However, I still wore my big, long, puffy north face coat, because the sun hadn't warmed up yet and it was a little breezy. It didn't even cross my mind to put on sunscreen... UH OH.... a mistake I won't make again!!! Just call me Linda the Lobster because my face is RED and ouch does it hurt!

So just a reminder to everyone from this point on remember to break out that sunscreen when outside!!!

Primavera (aka spring)

2010-03-08T07:16:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year again... the sun is starting to pop out and get warmer each day! I said to my husband yesterday, this truly is my favorite part of year. The sun's presence and strength becomes more prominent, people begin to come out and about, the foliage goes begins to freshen again! And all people want to do is just be outside. There's such a pride and innocence in it all again.

As we played tennis yesterday afternoon I watched a mini van stop, open it's doors, and out popped 7-8 little boys with their lacrosse sticks. And for the next 30 minutes they just ran around the field playing keep away in an unstructured way, but were thoroughly enjoying themselves. I though to myself... how can I incorporate that into my every day life over the next 6 months? Now it's fun.. I'll start trading the treadmill for the off-road terrain exercise for the joy of being outside, having the fresh air in my face... but somehow it usually turns into "ugh I have to go for a run today".. but why?

We have too many "have to's" and "should dos" in our lives. Where do I get back to that "childhood" moment of pleading with my mom for 15 more minutes outside before dinner or homework?

Dear John... Dear Lord...

2010-02-16T07:31:00.000-05:00

* I will try to not give specific details if anyone is dying to see it so I don't ruin anything*

OK so the best part about this movie... which I'm sure you could have guessed is Channing Tatum. The word that best describes him in this movie is H-O-T... shirt on or off! Obviously the company I kept during the movie all preferred his shirt off :), but when between his smile, side grin, and beautiful eyes it was just "fun" to watch him! I've always had a secret celebrity crush on him, but he always played a "harder" role in non-Oscar movies (i.e. Step Up, Fighting, Stop-Loss, GI Joe, etc.)- basically what I am trying to say nicely is he played a poorer, tough, gotta fight you, character.

That being said....... after the movie was over no one got up right away and I'm talking not just our group, but other people in the theater. It was like everyone needed a moment to process it all.

I started reading the book after my mom gave it to me for Christmas. It took a chapter or two for me to get into it (some other friends it took a little longer), but then I started to really enjoy it. I made a comment last night in the movie and my friend turned and looked at me in disbelief... "wait you didn't finish the book" and I had to admit that I did not! As much as I wanted to I just couldn't... after all I went through last year while reading the Twilight series (especially New Moon) I figured it was best for the sanity of myself and my husband that I need not get involved too emotionally in a love story (OK for all of you that snickered that Twilight is about werewolves and vampires, to me I sort of cut that part out while reading and just concentrated on the relationships and love triangles... which is much easier to do in a book than the movies.. cause that is what the movies play off of).

The movie, even from the beginning, is different from the book at parts. And not just because I pictured people differently. Some characters ages and relationships are different and the way the movie ends is different than the book. I don't do so well with change so when this happens I sort of get all out of whack and it takes me awhile to process if I actually like what is happening.

One of the most difficult parts for me of the movie was John's (Channing Tatum) relationship with his dad. I mean seriously from the first moment the dad is introduced I think I started tearing up (but that is just me). Just thinking about it now gets me teary-eyed (OK yes so I get a little attached to movies). When we're young (and maybe some people now) we just take such advantage of our parents. For the most part if you have decent parents... they're just trying to do their best. I mean frankly they are HUMAN too... we all make mistakes... and probably raising a child, the older they get, is probably extremely scary and difficult! And most children, adolescents and teenagers want to be left alone.. can you imagine what that feels like to hear, feel, or just know that someone doesn't want to be around you or is annoyed by you, etc. Being a people pleaser that is SO crushing to me! OK sorry I went off on a tangent!

One of the other things that was difficult for me was how fast they go through the beginning of their relationship. I know that movies can't be 10 hours long, but you tend miss that initial attraction and connection. This was very similar for how I felt during the Twilight movie compared to the book.. the movie doesn't do their connection and relationship justice in the beginning and you just have to keep remembering if the way you read it!

I also kept getting really annoyed at Savannah (female main character/Amanda Seyfreid) toward the end of the movie... she was just so SELFISH! Now many could disagree and say that she was selfless... I think it depends on which relationship you are referring too. That's the thing.. is we're all different and relate to different characters and relationships. At one point her character says something like "I didn't have a choice"... UGH.. seriously?!? I know it may have felt that way to her, BUT SHE DID HAVE A CHOICE!!!!! There were clearly other options and routes she could have taken by showing her love in a different way and it would have clearly gotten the point across!

There was one point in the movie where they are standing by each other and he is in his nice uniform and tie and you just want her to jump across the table and grab him! Another part where he is crying... which he did really well... where I almost lost it!

I got home from the movie last night and Kyle obviously could tell that I had been crying! Once again I just had that feeling of despair! I was then texting with a friend and advising her not to see it... I take that all back now (after watching the trailer again haha). It's a love story and the characters are fun, but it is definitely deep and sad! Just some advice now.. do NOT go into it thinking it's like The Notebook... completely different!!!!!

How-to Hair

2010-02-13T09:11:00.000-05:00

OK so before I write this blog I must preface it with how ridiculously vain it could be....

I ask that this be an interactive blog so I can get your feedback.... here is my dilemma (and I'm very aware how lucky I am that this is the "worst of my worries" on this lovely Saturday morning I spend with family):

Hair Needs: Hair Cut and Highlights and I could probably use a nice deep conditioning treatment for my locks since I've been swimming lately

Tale of two salons... or three....

For my highlights I usually head over to Gladwyne to the OMG salon. I LOVE the way the stylist, Victoria, gets the color of my hair usually exactly how I want it! I walk in as Spring is Sprung and she knows I want it blonde, blonde, blonde.... and during the winter months she knows I like to "experiment" and "go darker" and doesn't get annoyed with me- which is huge, because how many of us have felt awkward while sitting in that salon chair when we "want to try something different, but don't exactly know what we want and ask the opinion of the stylist... who wants direction. For awhile they had "Recession Rates" and on Thursdays was the discounted highlight day. As of yesterday when I called apparently our recession is "over" or just their rates are over- boo!

My haircut has always been a struggle since I've had to pay for it (haha) because it is SO expensive and it doesn't matter how much you are getting taken off.. i.e. I like the idea of a trim, but to pay $65+ for a trim is CRAZY!!! So for awhile with trims I'd go to Hair Cuttery or some cheaper salon and for my big cuts would go to my salon of choice. Now... I've been going to a salon that uses Kerastase products so when I go biannually I always get a hair mask/treatment and it has worked for me!

NOW the dilemma.... I NEED BOTH and ASAP!

So before I ask "what do I do?" let me introduce another "option"...

Thanks to a friend I found this great hair stylist who was very reasonable for coloring and cuts! So up until my wedding I was using her pretty frequently. Then she left her salon and was doing everything out of her home- which was great (cheap, flexible hours), but it took about 20 minutes to get there (not ideal but could be worth saving the funds). I don't know why I stopped going, but it just faded out.

Now all this being said I can't even get my hair blown dry any more because salons barely include it with the cuts and highlights (so ridiculous)!

The Big Picture question is do I continue with my OMG highlights, Jay Michael Hair Cuts and Treatments trading back and forth or do I go back to Jill for a "one stop shop" and cheaper job?!?

The more immediate question is what do I do THIS WEEK? I have an appointment on Thursday for OMG for highlights...

* Do I make a separate appointment at Hair Cuttery for earlier in the week with this stylist (who left OMG) that my friend referred me to?
* Do I call OMG and just get my hair cut while I'm there and fork over the $$ for convenience?
* Do I go to Jay Michael Salon and do my haircut, Kerastase treatment, and then go to OMG for highlights?
* Do I call Jill to see if she has any openings and go back with my tail between my legs?!?

Decisions... Decisions.......

SURVEY SAYS?!??!?

Tragic Olympic Accident

2010-02-13T08:17:00.000-05:00

With all of the wonderful hype and events leading up to the Olympics in Vancouver, unfortunately there was a horrific accident yesterday that you can't help but ignore.

Yesterday morning, Nodar Kumaritashvili, a 21-year old Georgian (the country) luger was killed on his morning practice run. He was on his FINAL curve and they say he was going 90mph. There was an investigation done and the Olympic committee is saying that the "athlete" lost control and he was inexperienced etc. etc. Which he may have had less experience than the other athletes, but he was ranked 44th in the world AT THE OLYMPICS- how can you call that inexperienced? And on another note there were over 1/2 dozen crashes and injuries the day before! One of the men on the Olympic committee was talking about he even was questioning the difficulty of the track overall and how it is very dangerous!

The video of the accident is SO horrible and extremely hard to watch! They show him loose control, fly airborne over the wall and strike medal beams. As soon as he hits the beam you don't see him move again. Could you imagine being one of his trainers/coaches or teammates that were right there with him? Obviously no one would even think that something of this magnitude could happen.

Could you imagine being a fellow luger that is expected to compete? I'd not only be filled with sorrow, but scared **less as well! I'm not sure if anyone watched the the Olympic Opening Ceremony last night (oh yes I did- made Kyle's whole family watch it for hours only to be the one that falls asleep in the last 5 minutes and missed the lighting of the torch- I mean seriously? But SO typical!) but when the Georgian team walked in with black scarves and arm bands, the flag half staff it really "hit home"... you just never know!

Morning Fav

2010-02-13T07:59:00.000-05:00

Beauty: Bumble and Bumble Curl Conscious Cream

"You don't know what you've got 'til it's gone" is exactly how I felt this week! I ran out of the product I use when I do my hair curly!

I LOVE hair products.... probably not as much as I used to, but I really love trying out "the best" and finding my favorite. Most people say- you find what you like and stick with it! Which is very true, but sometime with hair products (shampoo and conditioner as well) you just have to switch it up, it's better for your hair!

I wasn't a huge Bumble and Bumble fan of recent but sometime around my wedding one of my curly haired friends introduced me to this product and it was love! It gave me the curl I needed without the Jersey Shore crunch- which sometime can actually look really nice, especially during the summer and more humid temperatures because you NEED that hold.

This is a great product, you don't have to use a lot of it, and it lasts awhile!

PS- the key to "curlier" less frizzy hair is to keep the curls in tact (i.e. if you brush it, the best time to do it is with the conditioner still in the shower).

Morning Fav

2010-02-12T10:55:00.000-05:00

MY MORNING!

So this one is a little unconventional, BUT... I am having a great morning so far! Kyle and I dragged our butts out of bed at 5:00AM to start the morning off with our own personal "sprint triathlon"! After being stuck in the house for 2 days- which don't get me wrong it was AMAZING to get to spend that time together- but I think we both agree we were looking for some strenuous physical activity!

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

We shared a lane in the freezing pool this morning (yes the power had shut down and the pool wasn't heated to the normal 80 degrees, haha... spoiled!) and finished our workout with a mini- 50m race! I know that I am being a bad winner, BUT.... I WON, I WON, I really really WON!!!!!! OK so major poor sport BUT I never win at anything with Kyle (except for winning his heart <3, haha vomit I know, but Valentines Day is ahead of us so suck it up)!

We then headed upstairs to spin class, which is always a fav 5 in my mind! I like the variety and intensity of the class- it keeps me going! Today I changed it up a little and tried to stay "in the saddle" as much as possible. They recommend that you get used to it for training purposes. Even as an avid spinner, my BUMM felt like it was going to fall off. It was truly a challenge physically AS WELL as mentally.. "get up get up, no don't get up, stay here.. this is so hard, ahhhh.. you can do it"! But the class went by quickly and I left feeling great.. Although 1/2 way through the class I almost had a mental break down when Kyle took my hand and placed it from "position 2 to position 1" on my handle bars.. seriously ALMOST freaked.. won't even share that conversation with you... keep it PG.. but after about a 5-minute battle I decided that previously being a personal trainer and the current Program and Wellness Director at the YMCA may qualify him to give me a few pointers! Haha CRAZY!!!!

Today's workout was topped off by a quick 20-minute run on the treadmill! I was actually able to push myself harder today and go at a faster mph! Endurance or pacing myself have never been my "strong points", but I'm working on it! I really tried to stay positive throughout my work out and it felt so good!!! It was such an exhilarating feeling to really be present and participate during each of those workouts. I just kept feeling and telling myself.. now THIS is what my body is meant to do.. now THIS is what my body can do.. now THIS is what my body will do! I'm young and strong and I should take advantage of that. My old therapist always used to say "think of your body as a temple" which sounds SO weird and honestly uncomfortable if you ask me... but this morning during that run I truly felt that way! It was so great!!!

As I was making my breakfast I thought.. wouldn't it be great if every morning could feel like that in one way or another? I literally chuckled "yeah right" under my breath and then thought WHY NOT? As "normal" as my life is I have a pretty unconventional job that I keep trying to make conventional by organizing it around "standard" business hours! And there it is again.. the feeling of the need to "conform" and please people! I honestly get so insecure about my job sometimes that others are judging me. And you may think, why do you care? BUT I DO CARE because these people are my family and friends. I know not everyone cares and you could argue that I'm being selfish or self-centered to think that others really "care" about my schedule... but sometimes you can't help but to feel judged.. and even sometimes I may be the one judging.. making something out of nothing!

When it all comes down to it we're in control of how we feel at the end of each day. Have we worked, focused, tried, loved, cared enough that day? NO MATTER what it is that you are doing- are you a man or woman that has a 9-5 job, works from home, is a "stay at home mom", a philanthropist? Each of us has a role to play in this game we call life... it passes by way to quickly and a lot of the times we take advantage of the situation or opportunity right in front of us, for one reason or another. No matter what you do each day or what you role is you are important! Especially if you work hard at what you do.... you can have a significant affect on your lives and others! Why go around judging yourself and others all day when instead you could be a positive influence? Someone who empowers, who is caring, who nurtures, is a shoulder to cry on, an ear to listen, gives sound advice, a partner, a leader, etc. The list goes on and on.. be what you want to be... but be a participant! At the end of each day you truly know how much you gave that day.. it's measure by that feeling inside! Do you want to feel that maybe you could have done more or do you want to feel fulfilled?!?

Monster Madness

2010-02-10T12:26:00.000-05:00

WHAT HAVE I DONE?!? I'VE CREATED A MONSTER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

My husband has officially gone over the deep end! As he says it with a smile I want to jump across the couch and strangle and kiss him all at once! No, dirty minds, I'm not talking anything dominatrix here... just a plan spoiled husband!

OK I like to cook and bake and make sure my family is happy... to a certain extent! Everyone has their "house hold duties" they take care of... however this has been taken to the next level and I take full responsibility... I have only myself to blame!

As my husband ever so nicely cleared the driveway (not that we're going anywhere) I made him his favorite omelet, cinnamon-sugar English muffins, OJ, and a caramel macchiatto! No big deal!

As I proclaim that I'm going upstairs to finish up some work and will be down in 30 minutes to make lunch and we can watch a movie... he announces how "starving" he is and suggests maybe lunch should be made "now". My response?!? Ummmmm.... NO! You can wait 30 minutes.. he then goes on to ask for a snack to be made in his honor before lunch!! WHAT?!?! At that point I do lunge across the coach and strangle him.. don't worry it all ends well with some kisses, but still!!!!!

It's all in good fun, but sometimes I believe there is 100% seriousness behind that laugh and smile!!! <3

Morning Fav

2010-02-10T11:11:00.000-05:00

SNOW DAY!

Yes that's right... I'm a self proclaimed Snow Day-aholic! Your first thought may be.... wait don't you work from home? YES that is very true.... however the joy of working from home is a flexible schedule (most of the time). So last night I worked later, got my work done so I only had a few things to work on today and could enjoy the day with my husband and then later on some birthday and baby festivities with the neighborhood girls! Tough life- right?!? At times it seems so.... but days like these make you take a step back and really appreciate what you have! And it's different for everyone!

I hope everyone can enjoy their day... hopefully it's snowing where you are and you can be snuggled inside or you will be soon!!!!

Dear Stomach

2010-02-09T13:35:00.000-05:00

Dear Stomach,

How can you possibly be hungry again?!? I just fed you!!! And I know that it was nutritious, because it was well thought out of the exact combination of carbs, protein, veggies, etc.! Today is my off day, so I would appreciate it if you simmered down now... It will be time soon enough for wine and dinner! In the mean time just pretend that I am feeding you those yummy girl scout cookies that you so crave!

<3

The Bachelor

2010-02-09T10:30:00.000-05:00

ONNN THE WINGS OF LOOOVVVEEEEE......
Up and above the clouds
The only way to fly
Is on the wings of love
On the wings of love
Only the two of us
Together flying HIIIIIGGGHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!

OK so I was off of the Bachelor for awhile.. and I think it was because for the longest time my mom was SO obsessed with it and had all these issues DVR'ing and then I'd have to record it and watch it and then wasn't allowed to talk about it because she hadn't seen the episodes yet! So for clearly good reasoning, haha, I was out of the loop!

Well not sure how it happened, but I'm back in. And this guy is a CHEESE BALL, but secretly cute! But at this point, with 3-4 girls left you KNOW he has to be favoring some more than others! It has to be hard for the girls but also for him as well. What I mean is, I'm sure he has a ton of things he can and can't do in his contract with ABC to keep the show going and the fans watching!! NOT that he has it rough by kissing and grouping a San Fran athletic cutie, a dancer, a swimsuit model, a Florida hoochie mama!

I'm a fan of all the girls, minus Vienna- vomit city! I really like Ali, but last night she through everyone for a loop with her work dilemma! Basically she would lose her job if she stayed on the show! NOW... this has to be so hard, because she is so driven and independent but you could see how much she was into Jake (our bachelor). BUT at the same time, this is a game! And although he kept telling her he didn't want he to leave, he didn't tell her "she was the one". There was NO solid evidence she would be the last one standing. AND on top of everything else... if she quit her job to stay how much pressure does that put on him to pick her (and it's the same awkward, bizarre, scenario when women give men the engagement ultimatum- why would you want someone to marry you because you "forced them to"?!?! Wouldn't you WANT them to WANT to marry you?).

Any-who, last night ends with her leaving the show (in the cutest dress), Jake distraught, but putting on a brave face to tell the ladies they're on their way to the Caribbean! BUT the previews for next week show him having an amazing time, massively making out on the beach and in the water with the luscious ladies (so much that I got second hand embarrassment) and then he gets a call from.... drum roll please... ALI!!!!!!!

So....... does he blow her off or do we think that in the end he KNOWS she is the one and will end up with her?!? Let's be honest.. reality TV is not so "reality" anymore.. ANYTHING is fair game!

Morning Fav

2010-02-09T09:36:00.000-05:00

Food: Brown Rice Sushi

So.. I'm not really a rice fan unless it's a type of cous cous or risotto (OK already foaming at the mouth thinking about those two options), but I never pass up on sushi! Now... sushi just got even better and healthier :) for me! I know it may not be something NEW, but it is to me... ordering my sushi with brown rice!

Last night, long story short, I ordered take out sushi! I did a variety of spicy tuna, spicy tuna and avocado, dragon roll, and sweet potato roll (sounds weird.. don't knock it til you try it.. SO YUMMY)! I ordered all of them with brown rice and it was simply scrumptious!

Help Haiti Rise

2010-02-09T09:28:00.000-05:00

I found this good cause on Ruby Flat's blog and had to share! Part of me is ashamed I haven't written about this sooner and the other part of me thinks "better late than never".

More so than none people want to help when things are fresh in their minds or there is a lot of hustle and bustle going on, because there is a constant reminder.... but the after math, no pun intended, is when it is so important.

Specifically in the case of the earthquake in Haiti. The country of Haiti is still suffering and needs help! How many of us thought about donating money/clothes, texting to the Red Cross and donating $10 from your phone bill, or even the more "unrealistic" adoption of Haitian orphans... every time it came on Good Morning America I'd find myself in tears and wanting to help in any way possible!

These t-shirts (click on blog title link), Help Haiti Rise, are a good idea, because they are killing two birds with one stone. You are promoting the awareness and cause of helping Haiti when you wear it, BUT just by purchasing the t-shirt 100% of the proceeds go to Partners in Health (www.pih.org), which is helping out in Haiti as we speak. An added bonus- the t-shirts are cute and they are that really comfortable material!!!

Better Sex Secrets by Fit Magazine

2010-02-08T11:03:00.000-05:00

OK so watch out for this link (click on the blog title) it is definitely rated PG-16... maybe PG-30 I don't even know.. it definitely gives me Secondhand Embarrassment.. so why post anything you say?

Well to be honest it IS informative, BUT more so I got it sent to me in my weekly "Fit List" emails that I get sent by Fitness Magazine and Self Magazine ONLINE.. you should sign up- they usually give great food/snack ideas as well as ways to keep exercise more appealing and fun... well I guess that is why this was on the top of their list this morning! I guess I was more taken back by the illustrations!

And if you are having sex in order to "get in your exercise" maybe you should think again why you're having it.... maybe just try to "be in the moment" and enjoy it!

BUT.. no judgment! I read it and am now sharing it with all of you!