Today I read 1 Samuel chapters 1-6
S-Scripture:
1 Samuel 3:18
18 So Samuel told him everything, hiding nothing from him. Then Eli said, “He is the LORD; let him do what is good in his eyes.”
O-Observation:
Samuel has just had a vision that Eli, his father, will indeed see the wrath of God. He is told that all of his descendants will die young, yet he graciously accepts his punishment for his sins against God simply saying, "Let him do what is good in his eyes." He trusts that even though it is not what he wishes for himself and his family, that God is forever doing only what is necessary for the greatest good to come about.
A-Application:
Similar to yesterday's application, I see that God will use unpleasant things in our lives to bring about a change. He alone knows what the future holds and what each disappointment, difficulty, and struggle will do for us all in the long run. I need to remember that even though I may be in a low point in my life and wonder why God would allow this to happen to me, to my family, I have to trust that God would not bring me to it if He didn't plan to bring me out of it.
P-Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for the faith you have in me to overcome these difficult times. Please continue to hold me in your hands and give me the serenity to feel your peace in my life when times get difficult. Amen.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
SOAP journaling
A friend of mine posted a scripture from her daily devotional on Facebook that many of us responded to. Some asked what devotional she was using and others suggested their own devotionals. One person suggested the Life Journal and SOAP journal. She sent a link that got me interested and I went in search of more links on SOAP journaling! These are the ones I found helpful...
http://www.enewhope.org/firststeps/journaling/
http://www.shbctul.com/files/soapwebguide.pdf
http://www.livingroom.org.au/blog/archives/soap_life_journaling.php
http://www.aplaceofhope.org.au/SOAP%20Life%20Journal%20Booklet.pdf
Escentually, SOAP journaling is a way to delve deeper into your daily Bible Reading. You choose your passage (or read one that is provided for you), ask that God let one scripture in particular speak to you), then get to journaling.
S-Scripture
Copy down the specific verse(s) that spoke to you
O-Observation
What did this verse say to you? What was God trying to tell us/you?
A-Application
How can you apply this knowledge to your life?
P-Prayer
Pray for God to help you use this scripture in your life.
Because I am using the The Daily Bible: In Chronological Order 365 Daily Readings, it is difficult to always say exactly what passages I have read each day as the authors have "cut and pasted" from the different scriptures to put the events in chronological order. I love this Bible as a way to read through the Bible in a year. It is helping me put a new perspective on all of the Bible stories and when they took place. Therefore, instead of telling what the chapters/verses I have read, I'll have to instead tell you the stories.
Today I read several stories because I am quite a bit behind in my daily readings. I have had a tumultuous few months and have not been as vigilant on my reading as I should have been. Hopefully I can improve that by journaling.
So, yesterday, I started my first SOAP journal.
I read about the stories of Jephthah (Judges 10 - 12), Ruth and Naomi (Ruth 1-4), Sampson the Strong Man (Judges 13-16), Micah and the Danites (Judges 17- 18), and Civil War with Benjamin (Judges 19 -21).
S - Scripture:
The scripture that most spoke to me in all of this reading is Judges 14:1-4
1 Samson went down to Timnah and saw there a young Philistine woman. 2 When he returned, he said to his father and mother, “I have seen a Philistine woman in Timnah; now get her for me as my wife.”
3 His father and mother replied, “Isn’t there an acceptable woman among your relatives or among all our people? Must you go to the uncircumcised Philistines to get a wife?”
But Samson said to his father, “Get her for me. She’s the right one for me.” 4 (His parents did not know that this was from the LORD, who was seeking an occasion to confront the Philistines; for at that time they were ruling over Israel.)
O-Observation:
Even though his parents probably didn't like the idea of Sampson marrying a Philistine woman, they trusted that God was at work in his life. They trusted the feeling that Sampson had that told him this woman was the one. Even though she later turned out to betray him, it was all in God's plan.
A-Application:
I'm having a difficult time in my own marriage right now and many people in my life (including many strong Christian friends/family members) are yelling "DIVORCE!" saying that I even have Biblical back-up supporting that decision. However, in my heart of hearts, I don't believe that God is ready for me to give up on this union just yet. It is difficult to go against what those who love me believe to be the best course of action, but I have to believe that, like with Sampson, God may use a difficult and trying experience to make a greater change for the positive in my life as well as that of my husband.
P-Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the fantastic things you are doing in my life. Please grant me the wisdom to see the path that you have set forth for me and the strength and courage to travel along it. Soften the hearts of those who would stand in the way of Your will in my life and lead them to know your wonderful grace as well. Amen.
http://www.enewhope.org/firststeps/journaling/
http://www.shbctul.com/files/soapwebguide.pdf
http://www.livingroom.org.au/blog/archives/soap_life_journaling.php
http://www.aplaceofhope.org.au/SOAP%20Life%20Journal%20Booklet.pdf
Escentually, SOAP journaling is a way to delve deeper into your daily Bible Reading. You choose your passage (or read one that is provided for you), ask that God let one scripture in particular speak to you), then get to journaling.
S-Scripture
Copy down the specific verse(s) that spoke to you
O-Observation
What did this verse say to you? What was God trying to tell us/you?
A-Application
How can you apply this knowledge to your life?
P-Prayer
Pray for God to help you use this scripture in your life.
Because I am using the The Daily Bible: In Chronological Order 365 Daily Readings, it is difficult to always say exactly what passages I have read each day as the authors have "cut and pasted" from the different scriptures to put the events in chronological order. I love this Bible as a way to read through the Bible in a year. It is helping me put a new perspective on all of the Bible stories and when they took place. Therefore, instead of telling what the chapters/verses I have read, I'll have to instead tell you the stories.
Today I read several stories because I am quite a bit behind in my daily readings. I have had a tumultuous few months and have not been as vigilant on my reading as I should have been. Hopefully I can improve that by journaling.
So, yesterday, I started my first SOAP journal.
I read about the stories of Jephthah (Judges 10 - 12), Ruth and Naomi (Ruth 1-4), Sampson the Strong Man (Judges 13-16), Micah and the Danites (Judges 17- 18), and Civil War with Benjamin (Judges 19 -21).
S - Scripture:
The scripture that most spoke to me in all of this reading is Judges 14:1-4
1 Samson went down to Timnah and saw there a young Philistine woman. 2 When he returned, he said to his father and mother, “I have seen a Philistine woman in Timnah; now get her for me as my wife.”
3 His father and mother replied, “Isn’t there an acceptable woman among your relatives or among all our people? Must you go to the uncircumcised Philistines to get a wife?”
But Samson said to his father, “Get her for me. She’s the right one for me.” 4 (His parents did not know that this was from the LORD, who was seeking an occasion to confront the Philistines; for at that time they were ruling over Israel.)
O-Observation:
Even though his parents probably didn't like the idea of Sampson marrying a Philistine woman, they trusted that God was at work in his life. They trusted the feeling that Sampson had that told him this woman was the one. Even though she later turned out to betray him, it was all in God's plan.
A-Application:
I'm having a difficult time in my own marriage right now and many people in my life (including many strong Christian friends/family members) are yelling "DIVORCE!" saying that I even have Biblical back-up supporting that decision. However, in my heart of hearts, I don't believe that God is ready for me to give up on this union just yet. It is difficult to go against what those who love me believe to be the best course of action, but I have to believe that, like with Sampson, God may use a difficult and trying experience to make a greater change for the positive in my life as well as that of my husband.
P-Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the fantastic things you are doing in my life. Please grant me the wisdom to see the path that you have set forth for me and the strength and courage to travel along it. Soften the hearts of those who would stand in the way of Your will in my life and lead them to know your wonderful grace as well. Amen.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Update
2011 has not been my year. In fact, I'd happily zoom right back to 2010 anytime!
Not long after my dad passed away, I had another traumatic emotional blow. Without going into too much detail, my husband and I have decided to separate and move back to our hometown. He made a mistake (Oh boy did he make a big mistake), got caught, got in trouble, and is now dealing with the consequences (legally, financially, and personally). Unfortunately, that means that I am also dealing with the fallout of his mistake. Victimless crime? yeah...no not really.
Hurt, confusion, hurt, anger, hurt...
Despite his mistake, I still love him. The problem is I'm not sure that I can trust him I don't trust him right now. How can we have a sound relationship without trust?
I'm not ready to give up on my marriage. Despite thepushing encouragement insistance of many of my friends and family, I don't want a divorce if it can be helped. I still love my husband. Because what has happened has become public knowledge, so many people are assuming and expecting that I will leave him.
Although I love him, I'm not an idiot either. Forgiving him for his mistakes does not mean that I am OK with what he has done. I know that he made a mistake (yes, it was a mistake...although a HUGE one) and that he will need to "fix" things, get counseling, and face the consequences. It is possible that our marriage won't make it, but I have faith that God put us together for a reason.
We are both moving back to our hometown. He has moved in with his parents, and my mom is helping me to get a house for my daughter and I. We will be close to family, and although we will be separated, we will be close enough to try to begin working on our marriage as well.
If you are a praying person...Please... my family needs prayers.
Not long after my dad passed away, I had another traumatic emotional blow. Without going into too much detail, my husband and I have decided to separate and move back to our hometown. He made a mistake (Oh boy did he make a big mistake), got caught, got in trouble, and is now dealing with the consequences (legally, financially, and personally). Unfortunately, that means that I am also dealing with the fallout of his mistake. Victimless crime? yeah...no not really.
Hurt, confusion, hurt, anger, hurt...
Despite his mistake, I still love him. The problem is
I'm not ready to give up on my marriage. Despite the
Although I love him, I'm not an idiot either. Forgiving him for his mistakes does not mean that I am OK with what he has done. I know that he made a mistake (yes, it was a mistake...although a HUGE one) and that he will need to "fix" things, get counseling, and face the consequences. It is possible that our marriage won't make it, but I have faith that God put us together for a reason.
We are both moving back to our hometown. He has moved in with his parents, and my mom is helping me to get a house for my daughter and I. We will be close to family, and although we will be separated, we will be close enough to try to begin working on our marriage as well.
If you are a praying person...Please... my family needs prayers.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Dear Daddy
To my dearest Daddy,
I love you.
I know I told you that many times when you were alive, but I wish I could have told you just one more time how much you meant to me. You were my inspiration on bad days, my encouragement to keep going when I didn't think I could take one more step, and as the song that we danced to at my wedding said, "You are the wind beneath my wings." You really were. I'm going to miss you so much, but I know you would want me to keep going.
Even now, I can almost hear you laughing and making a joke about something. You never let anyone take themselves or anything else too seriously. Even when you were diagnosed with cancer seven and a half years ago, you never let it get you down. For seven years we heard, "You better give me the good Christmas presents this year because I don't know that I'll be here next year!" with a twinkle in your eye. The doctor gave you 3 years...guess you showed them!
Your upbeat spirit and unswerving faith in God has inspired not only me but many others throughout the county and beyond. The lack of seating at your funeral was definitely proof of that. You were a much respected man; you still are respected by many. My prayer is that I can live up to the legacy you have left me.
I will never forget your words to me when you saw me crying over your cancer diagnosis. "Why are you crying? I haven't wasted a tear and neither should you. If God wants me here, He's going to leave me here. If He wants me Home, He'll take me Home. It's out of our hands so why waist time worrying about it?" I hope that I can be as brave and as strong of faith as that when my time draws near.
The way you left was hard on us, but I know that it was easier for you that way. The cancer would have taken it's toll eventually and made you bedridden and miserable. This way, you were able to spend every last minute doing the things you love like fishing, golfing, working for the American Cancer Society and getting ready for another Relay for Life, and getting a final visit with your granddaughter the weekend before your death. I wish we had had more time, but I'm thankful for what time we had.
 |
| I've always been a daddy's girl |
I love you.
I know I told you that many times when you were alive, but I wish I could have told you just one more time how much you meant to me. You were my inspiration on bad days, my encouragement to keep going when I didn't think I could take one more step, and as the song that we danced to at my wedding said, "You are the wind beneath my wings." You really were. I'm going to miss you so much, but I know you would want me to keep going.
Even now, I can almost hear you laughing and making a joke about something. You never let anyone take themselves or anything else too seriously. Even when you were diagnosed with cancer seven and a half years ago, you never let it get you down. For seven years we heard, "You better give me the good Christmas presents this year because I don't know that I'll be here next year!" with a twinkle in your eye. The doctor gave you 3 years...guess you showed them!
 |
| Fishing at the beach - daddy's favorite thing to do |
I will never forget your words to me when you saw me crying over your cancer diagnosis. "Why are you crying? I haven't wasted a tear and neither should you. If God wants me here, He's going to leave me here. If He wants me Home, He'll take me Home. It's out of our hands so why waist time worrying about it?" I hope that I can be as brave and as strong of faith as that when my time draws near.
 |
| Relay for Life 2009 (I was pregnant) |
 |
| Dancing to "Wind Beneath My Wings" at my wedding 2004 |
When I heard the message on my phone that mom left saying that you had to go back into the hospital so soon after getting out from the bout you had with pneumonia, I knew something wasn't right this time. I never worried (too too much) about the times you had to go to the doctor or even go to the hospital because you had been such a fighter and had proven doctor after doctor wrong with how long you could fight. However, this one gave me a chill and a nervous shake. I knew it wasn't good...but I didn't know why. Unfortunately, even if I had dropped everything right then and there, left school and driven straight to the hospital, I wouldn't have had time to say goodbye. It happened so fast, the way you would have wanted, quick, painless, nobody fussing and crying over you. You never wanted to bother, inconvenience, or worry anyone else. You were always looking out for others. A trait I hope I can emulate.
Daddy, you will be missed, but you will never be forgotten. I know that right now you are up there playing basketball with your old coach from HS (who passed away only a week after you), having a good ol' time with Grandma and Grandpa, and talking to Jesus about finding a cure for cancer. Do me a favor and look in on my student who passed away earlier this year...you know the one. Make sure he's still smiling and is in good hands!
I love you Daddy, and I will see you again.
Love,
Sissy
My daybook
FOR TODAY
I am thankful for...
All the time I got to spend with my dad. Seven years ago, the doctors told him he only had 3 years to live. He made almost 7 1/2. That's 4 1/2 more years than we planned for :)
From the kitchen...
I can't wait to try this one!
Tropical Kielbasa
Ingredients
2 lbs kielbasa
2 cups ketchup
1 cup brown sugar
1 (20 ounce) can pineapple chunks (undrained)
Instructions
1 Slice Kielbasa into 1/2 inch slices and place in crockpot;.
2 Add ketchup, brown sugar and the can of pineapples;.
3 Stir until thoroughly blended;.
4 Cook on low in crockpot for approximately 4-5 hours.
I am wearing...
One of my daddy's Relay for Life shirts and a pair of cargo shorts
I am creating...
(another) new workout schedule. I've been a couch potato too long. I've got to beat this depression that has been trying to creep in since daddy's passing. I need to get those endorphins going. Daddy wouldn't want me to mope!
I am reading...
Clan of the Cave Bear by Jean M Auel. I read these when I was in HS but I just started re-reading them on my Kindle.
Around the house...
I just got my AC fixed today!! When I was pregnant with Baby Girl, our AC went kaput. We got a new one installed and all was great...for almost a year when the condenser had to be replaced (after much hassle from the manufacturer since it was still under warranty). Then the day after Daddy's funeral, I walk back into my house to find it had broken AGAIN! Luckily the distributor, rather than the manufacturer, was fabulous and after getting fed up with the manufacturer, decided to replace my entire system with a new brand.
Here is picture thought I am sharing...
The Simple Woman's Daybook
I am thankful for...
All the time I got to spend with my dad. Seven years ago, the doctors told him he only had 3 years to live. He made almost 7 1/2. That's 4 1/2 more years than we planned for :)
From the kitchen...
I can't wait to try this one!
Tropical Kielbasa
Ingredients
2 lbs kielbasa
2 cups ketchup
1 cup brown sugar
1 (20 ounce) can pineapple chunks (undrained)
Instructions
1 Slice Kielbasa into 1/2 inch slices and place in crockpot;.
2 Add ketchup, brown sugar and the can of pineapples;.
3 Stir until thoroughly blended;.
4 Cook on low in crockpot for approximately 4-5 hours.
I am wearing...
One of my daddy's Relay for Life shirts and a pair of cargo shorts
I am creating...
(another) new workout schedule. I've been a couch potato too long. I've got to beat this depression that has been trying to creep in since daddy's passing. I need to get those endorphins going. Daddy wouldn't want me to mope!
I am reading...
Clan of the Cave Bear by Jean M Auel. I read these when I was in HS but I just started re-reading them on my Kindle.
Around the house...
I just got my AC fixed today!! When I was pregnant with Baby Girl, our AC went kaput. We got a new one installed and all was great...for almost a year when the condenser had to be replaced (after much hassle from the manufacturer since it was still under warranty). Then the day after Daddy's funeral, I walk back into my house to find it had broken AGAIN! Luckily the distributor, rather than the manufacturer, was fabulous and after getting fed up with the manufacturer, decided to replace my entire system with a new brand.
Here is picture thought I am sharing...
 |
| Baby Girl trying to clean up the mess she made with her peas at dinner |
The Simple Woman's Daybook
Monday, February 14, 2011
I found a new site that has really helped me plan my meals! It's myfridgefood.com It's fantastic! You click on what you have on hand and it come up with tons of recipes made with things you already have! Loving it!! So I will be trying out 3 new recipies this week from this site. I still have to go grocery shopping to pick up a few things but at least I won't be wasting by ignoring food that I already have!
Monday : Chicken Quesidillas. Unfortunately, my Valentine won't be here so it's just me and Baby Girl for Valentine's Day dinner.
Tuesday: Quick Chicken Mex
Wednesday: Easy sandwiches (It'll be a late day for me!)
Thursday: Apple Glazed Pork Chops
Friday: left overs/ CORN
Saturday: Tropical Kielbasa in the Crockpot
Sunday: My mother in law will be here. I think we'll go out :)
Monday : Chicken Quesidillas. Unfortunately, my Valentine won't be here so it's just me and Baby Girl for Valentine's Day dinner.
Tuesday: Quick Chicken Mex
Wednesday: Easy sandwiches (It'll be a late day for me!)
Thursday: Apple Glazed Pork Chops
Friday: left overs/ CORN
Saturday: Tropical Kielbasa in the Crockpot
Sunday: My mother in law will be here. I think we'll go out :)
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Meal Plan Monday - on a budget!
This week I am having to clean out the fridge/freezer/pantry and eat what we have without going to the grocery store - or with getting only bare minimum.
So...(running from the fridge to the pantry and back again to see/compare)...it looks like we will be dining on...
Sunday: Chicken Pot Pie (I bought the stuff to make this last week and never got around to it)
Monday: Left over CPP
Tuesday: Quesidilla (cheese, chicken, and green peppers), maybe a can of green beans too
Wednesday: I have parent/teacher conferences at school so this one is up in the air - maybe just a bowl of cereal after all is done.
Thursday: Broccoli and Ham casserole
Which means that if all goes right, the only things I have to pick up at the grocery store is some milk and green peppers (for the quesidillas as well as the broccoli casserole)
Image via Wikipedia
We have had a few unexpected expenses this week, as well as an added WHAMMY! of having to go without a paycheck due to Hubby's crazy military schedule (he wasn't at his civilian job because he was on military orders so no paycheck from there...but the military pay hasn't kicked in yet so no paycheck from either yet! ARGHHHHH!!!) Anyway, with all of this, it means that we have to tighten up until it all gets ironed out.
So...(running from the fridge to the pantry and back again to see/compare)...it looks like we will be dining on...
Sunday: Chicken Pot Pie (I bought the stuff to make this last week and never got around to it)
Monday: Left over CPP
Tuesday: Quesidilla (cheese, chicken, and green peppers), maybe a can of green beans too
Wednesday: I have parent/teacher conferences at school so this one is up in the air - maybe just a bowl of cereal after all is done.
Thursday: Broccoli and Ham casserole
Friday: Frozen Chicken patties (maybe in a sandwich, or with some motz cheese and tomato sauce?) one of the many cans of veggies we have in the emergency store (this is an emergency, after all!)
Saturday: Frozen corn dogs for lunch, left over casserole for dinner.
Sunday: Cereal for lunch after church, frozen pizza and corn for dinner.
Which means that if all goes right, the only things I have to pick up at the grocery store is some milk and green peppers (for the quesidillas as well as the broccoli casserole)
Image via WikipediaMonday, January 3, 2011
Menu Plan Monday
Well it's just me and Baby Girl again most of this week so the idea is...SIMPLE SIMPLE SIMPLE! I'm trying to clean out the fridge/pantry a bit so in looking at what I have in there, here is what I'm planning for the week:
Monday: Left over Pork Chops, corn
Tuesday: Pizza (Thin crust, lots of veggies)
Wednesday: Chicken Cordon Bleu (frozen)
Thursday: Fish Sticks (frozen) and Mac and Cheese
Friday: Broccoli Ham Casserol
Saturday: Lunch: Left over casserol; Dinner: Hamburger HelperSunday: Lunch: leftover casserol OR Hamburger Helper; Dinner: Chicken Pot Pie
All of my recipes are HERE
But OrgJunkie has a lot too!!
If you plan your meals for the week on Monday...Hop over to OrgJunkie's site and add your link!
Saturday, January 1, 2011
New Years Resolutions
I haven't been able to write much lately - being the working mom of a 1 year old has it perks...but lots of free time isn't one of them!
However, I did want to quickly record my resolutions for this year for the world to see so that hopefully it will give me a bit of accountability
1. Read through the Bible using "The Daily Bible: New International Version: With Devotional Insights to Guide You Through God's Word." I've started several "read the Bible in one year" plans before but this Bible has it all laid out for me with commentary after each reading to help me to understand what it is I just read. It is also arranged so that the reading are put into chronological order so it will be easier for me to follow the whole path of the Bible. If this is the only goal I make this year, then it will be a good year.2. 100 Days Challenge with John "The Penguin" Bingham. Intentionally move (exercise) for at least 30 minutes DAILY for 100 days in a row
3. Complete the 200 sit-ups and 200 squats programs. I've attempted these before and failed to complete them.
This is going to be a rough year for me. Hubby deploys again soon, leaving Baby Girl and I to fend for ourselves. Hopefully the daily Bible devotions and exercise will help keep the stress down!
I think I did OK with last year's goals. I managed to run a half marathon so I am in fact physically ready to train for a full marathon...however... with the above mentioned deployment as well that that cute little one-year-old, I don't know that I will have the TIME to train for a full marathon in 2011 (this is why it isn't a goal for this year - but I will keep running and perhaps do a few halves). I also think I am better at asking for and accepting help from others. I've made a conscious effort to not let myself get overwhelmed and frustrated when help is just a phone call/doorway/e-mail/etc away.
However, I did want to quickly record my resolutions for this year for the world to see so that hopefully it will give me a bit of accountability
1. Read through the Bible using "The Daily Bible: New International Version: With Devotional Insights to Guide You Through God's Word." I've started several "read the Bible in one year" plans before but this Bible has it all laid out for me with commentary after each reading to help me to understand what it is I just read. It is also arranged so that the reading are put into chronological order so it will be easier for me to follow the whole path of the Bible. If this is the only goal I make this year, then it will be a good year.2. 100 Days Challenge with John "The Penguin" Bingham. Intentionally move (exercise) for at least 30 minutes DAILY for 100 days in a row
3. Complete the 200 sit-ups and 200 squats programs. I've attempted these before and failed to complete them.
This is going to be a rough year for me. Hubby deploys again soon, leaving Baby Girl and I to fend for ourselves. Hopefully the daily Bible devotions and exercise will help keep the stress down!
I think I did OK with last year's goals. I managed to run a half marathon so I am in fact physically ready to train for a full marathon...however... with the above mentioned deployment as well that that cute little one-year-old, I don't know that I will have the TIME to train for a full marathon in 2011 (this is why it isn't a goal for this year - but I will keep running and perhaps do a few halves). I also think I am better at asking for and accepting help from others. I've made a conscious effort to not let myself get overwhelmed and frustrated when help is just a phone call/doorway/e-mail/etc away.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Monday Menu Planning
I haven't done a formal menu planning in a long time because Hubby usually does most of the cooking and/or things have been busy and we don't know what we are doing until we actually do it. However, this week it will just be Baby Girl and I on our own, so it is up to me to get back into the kitchen!
Monday: Broccoli, Ham,and Cheese Casserole
Tuesday: Happy Birthday to Me!! My friends are taking me out - Yum! :)
Wednesday: Salsa Chicken, Cucumber Salad
Thursday: Pita Pizzas, salad
Friday: Sweet and Spicy Sausage, veggie and ranch dip
Saturday: C.O.R.N*
Sunday: Probably grab something on the way home from the airport after picking Hubby up.
Way back when (When I actually kept up with my blog), I would reflect not only on my food choices but also my exercise for the past and upcoming weeks...so here goes:
Last week I didn't do much throughout the week with Thanksgiving and all -- plus I was tapering for a half marathon that was yesterday. So I only did 2.5 miles midweek... then ran 13.1 on Sunday!
As for my workouts this coming week...I'm going to play it by ear. I want to make sure my body has plenty of time to recoperate and heal from the half marathon yesterday. I may do a few short, easy runs later in the week. Once I feel back up to par, I want to start with my 100 pushups, 200 situps, and 200 squats programs again. But that may have to wait unil next week!
*C.O.R.N. = Clean Out the Refridgerator Night
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Space Coast 1/2 Marathon
At the end of last school year, my friend and co-worker LeAnn came up to me and told me that one of her "bucket list" items was to run a half marathon and asked if I could guide her. I did one better, I told her I'd do it with her...
and so our training began!
I started her off with the Couch to 5K program, and since I was so far out of the running loop as well, I did it too. Then we progressed on to an actual half marathon training program....but I went and got SICK SICK SICK for 3 weeks leaving me only 2 weeks until race day.
Race day = TODAY!
It was a beautiful...albeit EARLY... morning! LeAnn and her husband picked me up around 4:45am (Hubby and Baby Girl were going to meet us up there a little later) so we had plenty of time to stretch and get psyched up for the big blastoff (It was space themed for the SPACE coast...what do you expect other than a "3...2...1...BLASTOFF" kind of start?).
We were feeling fantastic and hit the halfway mark before we even knew it! We even saw some dolphins jumping in the river which we took as a good luck sign :)
We were doing great until the last mile and a half...then all of a sudden my calf seized up on me in a massive cramp!!! OUCH!! I slowed to a walk for the first time just before the 12 mile mark, then stopped outright to give it a good stretch before toughing it out for the last mile. LeAnn never stopped but did slow down enough for me to catch up to her (she was afraid that if she stopped, her legs would refuse to start again -- I can't blame her!!)
At the very end she and I broke into an all out sprint (which after 13 miles isn't very sprinty but we felt like it was!). She finished seconds ahead of me (which I will publicly say is because of my calf, however the truth is I think she had more in her than I did at the end, plus she had the adrenaline of knowing her first marathon medal was waiting on her!).
It was an awesome run and I am so proud of LeAnn!!! We have decided that we want to sign up for another one in late February!!
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| LeAnn and I with our new bling |
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| Baby Girl and I after a sweaty reunion |
Friday, November 12, 2010
Ten on Ten November
I took these on the 10th ...then got sick and didn't get a chance to post them so I am posting them now...On the 12th :)
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| There was a boil water warning in the area that my school is in so I took some of our Hurricane water to school for my kiddos to drink (Hurrican season is almost over anyway - only a few more weeks!) |
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| Getting Dressed. Since there is no school on Veteran's Day, we are celebrating today so of course I had to wear my Navy Bear pin! :) |
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| The beads I wore (and played with) all day too. |
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| In Social Studies we were talking about the Incas who used runners to deliver messages over long streaches of land. To demonstrate it (and to just get outside for a while) I took my class outside to do a running telephone game where they all streached out and carried a question from me to the last person and then returned the answer to me. While outsied one of my boys found a feather. |
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| My husband, a Navy Vet, came to school to talk to the older kids about what it is like to be in the service, some of his experiance, and what Veteran's day and the flag mean to him. Here, he is letting on of the girls try on his body armor. |
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| Home again :) And I wondered why my glasses always have little fingerprints on them! |
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| One of the cute little birdies on one of my daughter's pillows |
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| Dinner time! Yummy cheesey chicken and noodles with peas |
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| I love cheese!! |
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| Bathtime! |
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Happy Veteran's Day
Please remember all the vets who have made our way of life possible. Without these brave souls, we wouldn't have may not have many of the simple pleasures we take for granted every day.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Ten over Ten on the Tenth of the Tenth of the Tenth (plus ten)
10 photos
over 10 hours
on the 10th day
of the 10th month
of the 10th year of this century
(plus 10 things I'm thankful for)
:)
(plus 10 things I'm thankful for)
:)
(Want to join in all the Foto Phun? Simply head over to 10 on 10,
take ten photos on the tenth of each month, and share them!
Easy-peasy!)
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| 1. Good Morning, Mommy! 7:30am |
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| 2. Scripture lesson at church 8:30am |
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| 3. Scripture lesson at Sunday School 9:30am |
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| 4. Yummy lunch of chicken, green beans, and Mandarin oranges :) (Not sure why it is sideways) 11:00 |
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| 5. Getting ready for a Dr. Seuss party that you could not, would not want to miss! 12:00pm |
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| 6. All the new shoes Daddy bought. Notice the camo boots! 1:00pm |
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| 7. Shelf above the TV - Grandma and Grandpa (I hate that there is a glare over Grandma, she was a BEAUTIFUL woman, inside and out), Hubby and I on our wedding, and our nephew along with all of the Challenge Coins that Hubby has acquired. 2:00pm |
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| 8. Grandma's China (yes, a beautiful woman had beautiful things :) ) 3:00pm |
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| 9. Night vision caught Daddy napping and Baby Girl eating crackers in bed! 4:00pm |
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| 10. Mmmmmmm Sippy cup! 4:45pm |
Ten things I am thankful for:
My friend Elizabeth posted 10 things she was thankful for in honor of 10-10-10 and Canadian Thanksgiving so I thought I would too!
- A wonderful year with my beautiful baby girl who is having her first birthday on Tuesday.
- Finding a church where I feel welcome and "home."
- A loving husband who does all that he can to support.
- Having bills to complain about (If I had no bills then that would mean I would have no home, water, electricity, food, etc...so many in the world don't).
- The wonderfully cool weather that has finally hit Florida.
- Having not only one family but many incredible groups that I call family (in-laws, adoptive, biological, step)
- My books. I love being able to briefly escape into a world of imagination that isn't my real life.
- Family and friends that I know will always be there for me no matter what.
- My health. So many don't have the luxury of good health.
- Diet Coke...yummmmm :)
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Alzheimer's Memory Walk 2010
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| Granny Jo, Poppa Harold, and my Baby Girl |
My Granny Jo has Alzheimer's Disease.
That's a harder sentence to write than you might imagine. It's hard to accept.
The fact that I have only known Granny Jo for not quite 15 years rather than my entire life doesn't change the way I feel about her. She is a fantastic woman who is full of life and love, and a very healthy helping of wit. The type of woman I hope to become.
However, the Alzheimer's is changing all of that. I have seen Granny Jo go from a sharp witty woman, to one who is forgetful and confused. I have seen her distress over simple things that she knows that she should know, but can't quite figure out. I have seen the pain on my Poppa Harold's face as he watches his beautiful wife change before his eyes. I have seen the tears in my biological mother's eyes as she watches her loving mother slowly forget her life.
 Image via Wikipedia |
| PET Scan of human brain w/Alzheimer's Disease |
I have seen the confusion in my Granny Jo's eyes as she looks at my baby daughter and tries to remember who she is.
It is painful for all involved.
My sister and I are determined to make a difference in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. By participating the 2010 Central Florida Memory Walk®, we're committed to raising awareness and funds for Alzheimer research, care and support.
Currently more than 5 million Americans have Alzheimer's, and 78 million baby boomers are at risk – unless we find a way to change the course of this disease.
Please take a few minutes to visit my secure donation website and make a small contribution. Even a few dollars will go a long way towards helping to find a cure for this horrible disease.
Please take a few minutes to visit my secure donation website and make a small contribution. Even a few dollars will go a long way towards helping to find a cure for this horrible disease.
More Information:
Image via Wikipedia
Image via WikipediaSuper Saturday #13
Yeah, I guess I'm going to have to change Fitness Fridays to Super Saturdays because I just can't seem to find the time on Friday's to blog anymore. I love my job but I get so spoiled in the summer!
Weigh in:
Dear Bathroom Scale,
I suck, I know :( I didn't come by last week and this week wasn't so great either. The good news though is that I think I can see a light in the tunnel... yep, it's there...I can see it...
Your pal,
Cole
The last few weeks haven't been the greatest on my get-back-in-shape goals. Baby Girl got sick (strep throat), work was hectic, and a few more excuses. Yes, I know most of them are just that...excuses... and there is no excuse for not taking care of myself, not eating right, not exercising...
The scale this morning was back up to 189 :(
Last week's goals:
Well, last week I didn't really have any goals so I'll go back to the week before last...
:-/ Since I did manage to go grocery shopping, I will bring healthy food for lunch Tues-Fri (Monday is an inservice day and 15 of us from my school are going to a science day at NASA so we are going to eat there) I can't remember last week, but this past week I didn't do so well on this. I brought my lunch once, left it at work so I didn't have my lunchbox the following day, and one day I ran out so quick (running late) that I forgot to pack it, and one day I packed it but left it on the kitchen counter. However, I mostly chose healthy foods in the cafeteria like spinach salad and tuna.
:-( Follow my training plan for workouts I walked a few time but I haven't run at all. I planned to this morning but I woke up with a headache. It's starting to let go so hopefully I can go run before it gets too hot.
:-( Do squats/sit ups/push ups for some cross training Didn't do these either.
:-/ Stop munching on the snacks that I give to the students (usually pretzels/crackers/etc but I will sit and mindlessly munch if I'm not careful) I decided to ease out of supplying snacks for my kids. They can still bring in a snack to eat but I won't supply it for them. This cut down on some of my snacking but I still have a bag of treats for the *extra special* rewards behind my desk.
This week's goals:
I'm going for the K.I.S.S. (Keep It Simple, Stupid) approach this week...
What I'm reading:
I finally managed to finish Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (Book 2) and I am barely on the first few pages of
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (Book 3). Maybe I'll get through them all before the last movie comes out...maybe lol
Weigh in:
Dear Bathroom Scale,
I suck, I know :( I didn't come by last week and this week wasn't so great either. The good news though is that I think I can see a light in the tunnel... yep, it's there...I can see it...
Your pal,
Cole
The last few weeks haven't been the greatest on my get-back-in-shape goals. Baby Girl got sick (strep throat), work was hectic, and a few more excuses. Yes, I know most of them are just that...excuses... and there is no excuse for not taking care of myself, not eating right, not exercising...
The scale this morning was back up to 189 :(
Last week's goals:
Well, last week I didn't really have any goals so I'll go back to the week before last...
:-/ Since I did manage to go grocery shopping, I will bring healthy food for lunch Tues-Fri (Monday is an inservice day and 15 of us from my school are going to a science day at NASA so we are going to eat there) I can't remember last week, but this past week I didn't do so well on this. I brought my lunch once, left it at work so I didn't have my lunchbox the following day, and one day I ran out so quick (running late) that I forgot to pack it, and one day I packed it but left it on the kitchen counter. However, I mostly chose healthy foods in the cafeteria like spinach salad and tuna.
:-( Follow my training plan for workouts I walked a few time but I haven't run at all. I planned to this morning but I woke up with a headache. It's starting to let go so hopefully I can go run before it gets too hot.
:-( Do squats/sit ups/push ups for some cross training Didn't do these either.
:-/ Stop munching on the snacks that I give to the students (usually pretzels/crackers/etc but I will sit and mindlessly munch if I'm not careful) I decided to ease out of supplying snacks for my kids. They can still bring in a snack to eat but I won't supply it for them. This cut down on some of my snacking but I still have a bag of treats for the *extra special* rewards behind my desk.
This week's goals:
I'm going for the K.I.S.S. (Keep It Simple, Stupid) approach this week...
- Exercise!
- Eat right!
What I'm reading:
I finally managed to finish Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (Book 2) and I am barely on the first few pages of
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (Book 3). Maybe I'll get through them all before the last movie comes out...maybe lol
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Weigh-in:
Dear Bathroom Scale,
I didn't forget you this week... I... Uhhh... I thought I'd give you a break from having to put up with me. Yeah, that's it :)
I didn't weigh in this week, because, I honestly did forget until right now! Oops.
I guess though, that isn't really a bad thing. It means that my weight isn't top priority in my mind. I'm not dwelling on it and I'm not letting it bother me so much. I'll weigh one morning soon...if I think about it ;)
Last Week's Goals:
:) My top priority this week is to GET WELL! Without that, the others just don't seem to matter as much. Well that is one accomplished! I think everyone in the house is finally back to normal and the sickness has left the building!
:) If I am able to get better, I do hope to get in at least 2 runs this week. I started following my 12 week training plan so I actually ran Tuesday (2 miles), Thursday (2.32 miles), and Saturday (3 miles)
:( as well as incorporate my sit ups, push ups, and squats again 3X's I didn't get in any squats/sit ups/push ups but I did walk several times this week with the family
:) Drink plenty of water I took and filled my water bottle several times during he day :)
:/ Pack/eat healthier foods I didn't pack my lunch at all this week - didn't go grocery shopping until Friday- but I did try to choose healthier foods in the cafeteria at lunch like Spinach salad with tuna 2 days, and baked chicken another...oh and there was that one day that I grabbed the veggie pizza (but hey, my choices were veggie pizza, pepperoni pizza, cheese pizza, or something-that-almost-looks-like-a-hamburger-if-you-squint).
This Week's Goals:
Currently Reading:
I'm still working on Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (Book 2). I just haven't had time to read much this week. However, I am starting to be able to see over the mountain of paperwork on my desk and there is a light at the end of the tunnel - and the tunnel is ending pretty quick
Here is a 2 sentence teaser from the page I am currently on:
Dear Bathroom Scale,
I didn't forget you this week... I... Uhhh... I thought I'd give you a break from having to put up with me. Yeah, that's it :)
I didn't weigh in this week, because, I honestly did forget until right now! Oops.
I guess though, that isn't really a bad thing. It means that my weight isn't top priority in my mind. I'm not dwelling on it and I'm not letting it bother me so much. I'll weigh one morning soon...if I think about it ;)
Last Week's Goals:
:) My top priority this week is to GET WELL! Without that, the others just don't seem to matter as much. Well that is one accomplished! I think everyone in the house is finally back to normal and the sickness has left the building!
:) If I am able to get better, I do hope to get in at least 2 runs this week. I started following my 12 week training plan so I actually ran Tuesday (2 miles), Thursday (2.32 miles), and Saturday (3 miles)
:( as well as incorporate my sit ups, push ups, and squats again 3X's I didn't get in any squats/sit ups/push ups but I did walk several times this week with the family
:) Drink plenty of water I took and filled my water bottle several times during he day :)
:/ Pack/eat healthier foods I didn't pack my lunch at all this week - didn't go grocery shopping until Friday- but I did try to choose healthier foods in the cafeteria at lunch like Spinach salad with tuna 2 days, and baked chicken another...oh and there was that one day that I grabbed the veggie pizza (but hey, my choices were veggie pizza, pepperoni pizza, cheese pizza, or something-that-almost-looks-like-a-hamburger-if-you-squint).
This Week's Goals:
- Since I did manage to go grocery shopping, I will bring healthy food for lunch Tues-Fri (Monday is an inservice day and 15 of us from my school are going to a science day at NASA so we are going to eat there)
- Follow my training plan for workouts
- Do squats/sit ups/push ups for some cross training
- Stop munching on the snacks that I give to the students (usually pretzels/crackers/etc but I will sit and mindlessly munch if I'm not careful)
Currently Reading:
I'm still working on Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (Book 2)
. I just haven't had time to read much this week. However, I am starting to be able to see over the mountain of paperwork on my desk and there is a light at the end of the tunnel - and the tunnel is ending pretty quickHere is a 2 sentence teaser from the page I am currently on:
" 'If I'd sprouted whiskers, I'd take a break from work,' said Ron, tipping a stack of books onto Hermione's bedside table one evening.
'Don't be silly, Ron, I've got to keep up,' said Hermione briskly.' "
Monday, September 6, 2010
12 week 1/2 marathon training plan
A friend of mine and I have decided to run a local 1/2 marathon in November. It will be her first 1/2 marathon so I am trying to help her out with the training. I am NOT a coach, just a friend with a little bit more experience than she has at running endurance races, so I came up with this 12 week 1/2 marathon training program (OK, so I modified it from one I found online to suit our needs)
I appreciate any advice/criticism/critiques from any more experience than I:
Week- Monday- Tuesday -Wednesday -Thursday- Friday -Saturday -Sunday
1 (Sept 6-12)- Rest -2 mi- Rest- 2.5 mi- Rest -3 mi -2 mi EZ
2 (Sept 13-19)- Rest -2 miles- Rest- 3 mi- CT or Rest- 4 mi -2.5 mi EZ
3 (Sept 20-26)- Rest- 2.5 mi- CT- 3 mi- Rest -5 mi -2 mi EZ
4 (Sept 27-0ct 3)- Rest- 3 mi- CT- 4 mi -Rest --6 mi 3 mi EZ
5 (Oct 4-10) -Rest -3 mi- CT -3 mi- Rest -7 mi- 3 mi EZ
6 (Oct 11-17)- Rest- 4 mi- CT- 4 mi- Rest- 8 mi- 3 mi EZ
7 (Oct 18-24)- Rest -4 mi -Rest- 4 mi- CT- 9 mi- 3 mi EZ
8 (Oct 25-31)- Rest- 4 mi -CT -3 mi- Rest -10 mi- 3 mi EZ
9 (Nov 1-7)- Rest- 5 mi -CT -4 mi- Rest -11 mi -Rest
10 (Nov 8-14)- 3 mi EZ- 4 mi- Rest- 3 mi- CT- 12 mi- 3 mi EZ
11 (Nov 15-21)- Rest- CT- Rest- 3 mi -CT -5 mi- 2.5 mi EZ
12 (Nov 22-28) -Rest -2 mi- 20 minutes -Rest- 20 minutes- Rest- Race Day!
Thoughts? Comments? Advice?
I appreciate any advice/criticism/critiques from any more experience than I:
Week- Monday- Tuesday -Wednesday -Thursday- Friday -Saturday -Sunday
1 (Sept 6-12)- Rest -2 mi- Rest- 2.5 mi- Rest -3 mi -2 mi EZ
2 (Sept 13-19)- Rest -2 miles- Rest- 3 mi- CT or Rest- 4 mi -2.5 mi EZ
3 (Sept 20-26)- Rest- 2.5 mi- CT- 3 mi- Rest -5 mi -2 mi EZ
4 (Sept 27-0ct 3)- Rest- 3 mi- CT- 4 mi -Rest --6 mi 3 mi EZ
5 (Oct 4-10) -Rest -3 mi- CT -3 mi- Rest -7 mi- 3 mi EZ
6 (Oct 11-17)- Rest- 4 mi- CT- 4 mi- Rest- 8 mi- 3 mi EZ
7 (Oct 18-24)- Rest -4 mi -Rest- 4 mi- CT- 9 mi- 3 mi EZ
8 (Oct 25-31)- Rest- 4 mi -CT -3 mi- Rest -10 mi- 3 mi EZ
9 (Nov 1-7)- Rest- 5 mi -CT -4 mi- Rest -11 mi -Rest
10 (Nov 8-14)- 3 mi EZ- 4 mi- Rest- 3 mi- CT- 12 mi- 3 mi EZ
11 (Nov 15-21)- Rest- CT- Rest- 3 mi -CT -5 mi- 2.5 mi EZ
12 (Nov 22-28) -Rest -2 mi- 20 minutes -Rest- 20 minutes- Rest- Race Day!
Thoughts? Comments? Advice?
Friday, September 3, 2010
Fitness Friday #11
Weigh-in:
Dear Bathroom scale,
It's been a while, my old friend. I've seen you often as I've run to and from the bathroom but I have not had the time to spend with you lately. We have to catch up! I promise I won't get you sick...I'll spray you down with Lysol!
Your Pal,
Nicole
187.9
WHoooo HOooo!! I've lost again, though again, it wasn't the way that I had hoped to lose. I have been off and on sick for the past 2 weeks - had to call in to work again this morning. Baby Girl and I seem to be passing the same bug back and forth which makes for a very unhappy momma! I didn't always eat right as I was usually wanting comfort food and I didn't exercise AT ALL because well... I couldn't do much other than print to the bathroom :(
Last Week's Goals/Results:
I didn't do Fitness Friday last week due to being ill so I have no goals to report on. I did however, manage to survive...which is always goal #1!
This Week's Goals:
My top priority this week is to GET WELL! Without that, the others just don't seem to matter as much.
If I am able to get better, I do hope to get in at least 2 runs this week
as well as incorporate my sit ups, push ups, and squats again 3X's
Drink plenty of water
Pack/eat healthier foods
Currently Reading:
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. I finished The Last Olympian (Percy Jackson & the Olympians, Book 5)
which concluded the Percy Jackson series and moved on to my OCD reading of all the Harry Potter Books prior to a new movie coming out. I have to get them all done again by the time the first of the last movies comes out on November 19, 2010 :)
Dear Bathroom scale,
It's been a while, my old friend. I've seen you often as I've run to and from the bathroom but I have not had the time to spend with you lately. We have to catch up! I promise I won't get you sick...I'll spray you down with Lysol!
Your Pal,
Nicole
187.9
WHoooo HOooo!! I've lost again, though again, it wasn't the way that I had hoped to lose. I have been off and on sick for the past 2 weeks - had to call in to work again this morning. Baby Girl and I seem to be passing the same bug back and forth which makes for a very unhappy momma! I didn't always eat right as I was usually wanting comfort food and I didn't exercise AT ALL because well... I couldn't do much other than print to the bathroom :(
Last Week's Goals/Results:
I didn't do Fitness Friday last week due to being ill so I have no goals to report on. I did however, manage to survive...which is always goal #1!
This Week's Goals:
My top priority this week is to GET WELL! Without that, the others just don't seem to matter as much.
If I am able to get better, I do hope to get in at least 2 runs this week
as well as incorporate my sit ups, push ups, and squats again 3X's
Drink plenty of water
Pack/eat healthier foods
Currently Reading:
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. I finished The Last Olympian (Percy Jackson & the Olympians, Book 5)
which concluded the Percy Jackson series and moved on to my OCD reading of all the Harry Potter Books prior to a new movie coming out. I have to get them all done again by the time the first of the last movies comes out on November 19, 2010 :)Wednesday, September 1, 2010
I have time for another quick update...
but just a quick one.
There has been a sickness going around my house and it seems tohave hit us all - even Baby Girl :( The only thing worse than being sick is seeing your baby sick too.
I've not been running, or even working out much the last 2 weeks. I've been trying to eat right, but it hasn't always happened as no one around here feels much like cooking so we resort to frozen dinner or take-out.
I haven't weighed myself in a while either but I will try to get back on track and weigh again on Friday and get back to running and woring out.
On a good note, my principal interviewed teachers on Tuesday, but I'm not sure how it went. (I wasn't at school yesterday or today because Baby Girl is sick and can't go to the sitter. I missed a few days last week because I was sick).
There has been a sickness going around my house and it seems tohave hit us all - even Baby Girl :( The only thing worse than being sick is seeing your baby sick too.
I've not been running, or even working out much the last 2 weeks. I've been trying to eat right, but it hasn't always happened as no one around here feels much like cooking so we resort to frozen dinner or take-out.
I haven't weighed myself in a while either but I will try to get back on track and weigh again on Friday and get back to running and woring out.
On a good note, my principal interviewed teachers on Tuesday, but I'm not sure how it went. (I wasn't at school yesterday or today because Baby Girl is sick and can't go to the sitter. I missed a few days last week because I was sick).
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