What? 90 Days are already over? Didn't I just post my 90 Day Goals on here? Time to see how I did.
I went back and read my original post with my goals, and realized that somewhere between writing them on my blog, and writing them on the giant poster I hang in my room to remind me of my goals- I missed a few things. So my summary may be slightly different than my original post.
Let's do the "worst for first and the best for last". (So that I end feeling good about myself and not totally lame!)
SPIRITUAL: Interestingly enough, this was my worst area. I don't know what happened. I think I may have bit off a little more than I could chew and for some reason it was my Spiritual Goal that suffered the most.
Attend the Temple Every Month. While I did attend the Temple once- I was obviously two short of my goal (3 times going to the Temple). I am, however, proud to do that simple math (3-1= 2) as a result of my Mental Goal. But we will get to that later.
Study My Lesson Daily And while I struggled to do this daily, I did study my lesson much more frequently, and even started a facebook page for my class to get updates about the lesson. So while I didn't meet my goal, I definitely improved. :)
Meditate Before my Morning Prayers. Man, this sounded awesome when I planned it! But finding a few minutes to pray before I get going in the morning is hard enough- without adding meditation! I did find that the times I was able to meditate before I prayed (probably once a week for the whole 90 Days) my mind was much clearer and my prayers were way less rushed and much more sincere. I would like to revisit this goal and see how to make it work in my life. (you know, like waking up earlier)
FINANCIAL: This one may actually tie for "worst for first". While I didn't ever effectively budget, I did cut back on some spending. In some areas. For instance; I am wearing "elf" lip gloss right now because I lost my Lancome lip gloss and new that spending money on lip gloss seemed to be in the "unnecessary spending" category. My lip are pretty mad at me.
PERSONAL: Here is my first Life Changer.
Connect with my Children Daily love this one. It made the difference between me letting Macie watch TV while Blake is at preschool and me playing My Little Ponies with her. It made the difference between me getting upset with Riley and yelling at her at our 12th store looking for shoes- and me actually holding her in my arms while she cried about how hard it is for her to find shoes that don't hurt. It made the difference between me nodding while Blake launches into a long story about about how bees carry pollen from flower to flower and actually listening to my brilliant son and asking questions. Loved it.
Daily Calendar this one also made a bigger difference than I expected it to. I just wanted to get more organized, which this definitely helped, but I ended up getting much more out of it. Apparently planning and writing things on the calendar help with my depression. It helps to see all of the great things I have planned. It also helps my anxiety to know when things are going to get done. I have been lazy since 90 Day Goals ended and haven't done it- and can already feel the anxiety. So I am making that one permanent.
Read and do The Magic. Ok, this book was definitely the most life changing part of 90 Day Goals. I seriously want to buy a million copies of the book and give it to everyone I know. (But since that would conflict with my "no unnecessary spending" goal, I guess I will let you go to Amazon yourself and buy it. Right now. Go ahead, I will wait. Have you bought it yet? Seriously, finish reading my post, then go back and get it.) It is such a powerful book on Gratitude. It gives you a short daily lesson on gratitude and then an activity to practice having more gratitude in your life. It is really hard to describe in writing- but practicing gratitude (and I believe there is a big difference between being grateful and practicing gratitude) has literally changed some very difficult things in my life. From relationships that are broken to finances to healing my body, every aspect of my life has been blessed by learning how to practice gratitude daily. *sigh* I feel grateful just thinking about how much my life has changed!
MENTAL: This goal was surprisingly more enjoyable than I anticipated.
Learn 10 New Technical Things I am finally loving my iphone because of this goal. In fact I just discovered that if you tell Siri a movie title it will tell you all of the nearby theaters and times that it is playing! (Way better than my Fandango app!) I feel pretty good about that part. As for me and my Silhouette; we are still not any closer to getting along. In fact, I think I need to read The Magic to apply some of it's principles to heal my relationship with my Silhouette. (I am embarrassed to admit that after our last falling out there were tears and even some name calling. I don't know why technology hates me so much.)
Play Sudoku Daily I am also pretty proud of this one! I went from taking 45 minutes (with my worst time being close to two hours!) to under 10 minutes to complete a game on the "easy" level! So I can finally check "fear of numbers" off of my list. (Ok, just the numbers 1-10, that is as high as Sudoku goes) I am already thinking that next 90 Day Goals I will try another Math thing. Maybe going to a second grade class and playing "Multiplication Around the World"! (Notice I didn't say division or anything past the 4th grade, I am still way to intimidated for that advanced stuff.)
PHYSICAL: Definitely my best area!
No Fast Food apparently I forgot that I had included "no french fries" with this. While I did totally avoid fast food, I did have the occasional Red Robin fries. Out of 90 Days, I only had fast food twice! That is pretty amazing for me. And I have totally noticed the difference. Not so much in waist (which is where I wanted to see the differnece) but in my wallet, and in my cravings. I don't have any fast food cravings. In fact, most of it sounds kind of grosse to me. (This from the girl that was on a first name basis in almost every drive thru around.)
Give up all Soda/ and replace it with water I will be honest. This was the hardest 90 Day Goal I have ever done. By far. I am sure you all read my post about it, and cried with me over my loss. But I am happy to say: I am well into recovery. I have stopped obsessing about it. I have stopped craving it. I have stopped waking up at 2 a.m. dreaming about it. I have stopped driving back and forth in front of the McDonalds drive thru listening to "End of the Road" by Boyz II Men. I have even started to really enjoy drinking water instead. And for those of you who are curious; I am never planning on starting up again.
Run a Half Marathon I did it! I can't believe it. When I set this as a goal I don't think I realized how hard it would be. I had heard people say "if you can run a 10K you can run a half". That was not true for me. I think "if you can run a 10K you can finish a half marathon" would be more accurate. It was hard. The training was hard. When we started the 90 Day Goals, the plan was to make a documentary of the goals (there were quite a few film makers involved in the group) and so we made video journals throughout the 3 months of our progression on our goals. It is interesting to look back and see me cry after a run that was particularly painful for my back injury. Or another video after I ran 9 miles in the pouring down rain and hail. I have videos of me struggling to do 6 miles in the beginning, and then me actually crossing the finish line of a 13.1 mile race!
I learned a ton about myself training for this type of run. And I am proud to say that I refused to ever give up. I am proud that I set a hard goal and stuck to it! I learned that I actually really like running. That I am actually good at it. (not "fast" good, just "capable" good) And I learned that my biggest fans and biggest support are always my friends and family.
There you go. 90 Days. It was life changing. I plan on maintaining a lot of the goals I worked on, and improving the ones I failed :) Feel free to tell me that you think I am awesome.
Saturday, May 18, 2013
Sunday, May 12, 2013
A face that only a mother could love
Happy Mother's Day!
My mom recently sent me a card that read in part "I have always loved being your mom"- it made me realize again what an amazing woman she is. And I realized that maybe you should see some pictures of why "always loving" me may have been so difficult!
For those of you who remember this post from a few years ago- you can have a good laugh again.
For those of you who missed this last time, back by popular demand:
A Face that Only a Mother Could Love....
We've all heard the Phrase:
A FACE THAT ONLY A MOTHER COULD LOVE...
Well in honor of MOTHER'S DAY-- I give you a Face that ONLY My Mother could love:
It gets better.... wait for it....
That is right, My Mom LOVED Jabba the Hut! Or as my Family actually called me "The Michelin Man" because my arms and legs and tummy and neck, ok EVERYTHING looked like it was made out of tires like the Michelin Tires Man!
And Now I give you: THE MOTHER that LOVED THAT FACE, and neck, and legs....
There she is, the woman who gave me LIFE (and maybe a little too much to eat! just kidding). This is the woman who let me wear a Tutu EVERYDAY (accept at Disney Land, and I am still a little bitter about that) when I was five just because I wanted to. (I owe her my free spirit for that) This is the woman who made the best birthday cakes of any mom I knew. (I owe her my love of Cup Cakes and the joy of piping frosting) This is the woman who taught me funny songs around the camp fire on family camp outs. (I owe her my love of music... or at least the funny stuff!) This is the woman who helped me highlight my hair when she caught me skipping school having a REALLY REALLY BAD DAY even though coloring our hair was against her rules! (I owe her my understanding and flexibility to not sweat the small stuff) This is the woman who opened my Mission Call and told me over the phone when I was scared to go that she had read it and KNEW that "in ALL the WORLD this is where My Katie should go". (I owe her the strength to open my already opened mission call and GO on my mission - which has been one of the BEST DECISIONS of my life) This is the woman who called home from her Mission in Washington D.C. when Riley was born to tell me she would be able to come home for a weekend and see my newborn baby! I don't think she knew how much it meant to me to show her my new baby girl. (I owe her a lot of tears for that one)
She did ALL OF THAT for that "little" baby girl with a Face that only a MOTHER could love.
Now, she is not my ONLY MOTHER.
I have one more. This woman gave me my GREATEST GIFT ever. A WONDERFUL HUSBAND.
This is JT with his Grandpa Davis (Shauna's Dad) Whom we named Blake after (Blake DAVIS)
JT is the bottom left :) sorry, I didn't have any Baby Pics- so he just gets toddler pics!!
JT is on the left with the cool hat, his little brother is on the lawn mower with the pizza! too cute to pass this one up!
And now I give you the Mother who gave me her son:
There she is: The woman who gave me the Love of My Life. (and because of him, 3 beautiful children- so I owe her a lot of my happiness). This is the woman who I fell in love with first. (that's right, on our 2nd "date" I met his mom and fell in love! I HOPED I would fall in LOVE with JT so that she could be my mother in law! So I guess I owe her the fact that I even Love her son!) This is the woman who welcomed me into her home and family after only 3 weeks of dating her son! (I owe her my immediate acceptance and comfort in her home) This is the woman who shares my talent for weeping! (she may be the only person who tears up more than I do! I owe her a few tears for that!) This is the woman who invites me to sing around the piano with her on Sundays or Holidays (which is better than dessert for me! and that is saying alot. I owe her the love JT has for music) This is the woman who has been an example of Quiet Dignity. (something I strived to attain on my mission with little success-- obviously. I owe her my desire to keep trying!) This is the woman who lets me lay around her pool all summer long, or at least the 3 days that it is warm around here! (I owe her my Vitamin D and the 3 freckles I get each year!)
So there you have it. My Mothers. How blessed am I to have two wonderful women to look up to, be friends with, and love??
Happy Mother's Day. Thanks for "Loving Our Faces."
My mom recently sent me a card that read in part "I have always loved being your mom"- it made me realize again what an amazing woman she is. And I realized that maybe you should see some pictures of why "always loving" me may have been so difficult!
For those of you who remember this post from a few years ago- you can have a good laugh again.
For those of you who missed this last time, back by popular demand:
A Face that Only a Mother Could Love....
We've all heard the Phrase:
A FACE THAT ONLY A MOTHER COULD LOVE...
Well in honor of MOTHER'S DAY-- I give you a Face that ONLY My Mother could love:
It gets better.... wait for it....
That is right, My Mom LOVED Jabba the Hut! Or as my Family actually called me "The Michelin Man" because my arms and legs and tummy and neck, ok EVERYTHING looked like it was made out of tires like the Michelin Tires Man!
And Now I give you: THE MOTHER that LOVED THAT FACE, and neck, and legs....
There she is, the woman who gave me LIFE (and maybe a little too much to eat! just kidding). This is the woman who let me wear a Tutu EVERYDAY (accept at Disney Land, and I am still a little bitter about that) when I was five just because I wanted to. (I owe her my free spirit for that) This is the woman who made the best birthday cakes of any mom I knew. (I owe her my love of Cup Cakes and the joy of piping frosting) This is the woman who taught me funny songs around the camp fire on family camp outs. (I owe her my love of music... or at least the funny stuff!) This is the woman who helped me highlight my hair when she caught me skipping school having a REALLY REALLY BAD DAY even though coloring our hair was against her rules! (I owe her my understanding and flexibility to not sweat the small stuff) This is the woman who opened my Mission Call and told me over the phone when I was scared to go that she had read it and KNEW that "in ALL the WORLD this is where My Katie should go". (I owe her the strength to open my already opened mission call and GO on my mission - which has been one of the BEST DECISIONS of my life) This is the woman who called home from her Mission in Washington D.C. when Riley was born to tell me she would be able to come home for a weekend and see my newborn baby! I don't think she knew how much it meant to me to show her my new baby girl. (I owe her a lot of tears for that one)
She did ALL OF THAT for that "little" baby girl with a Face that only a MOTHER could love.
Now, she is not my ONLY MOTHER.
I have one more. This woman gave me my GREATEST GIFT ever. A WONDERFUL HUSBAND.
This is JT with his Grandpa Davis (Shauna's Dad) Whom we named Blake after (Blake DAVIS)
JT is the bottom left :) sorry, I didn't have any Baby Pics- so he just gets toddler pics!!
JT is on the left with the cool hat, his little brother is on the lawn mower with the pizza! too cute to pass this one up!
And now I give you the Mother who gave me her son:
There she is: The woman who gave me the Love of My Life. (and because of him, 3 beautiful children- so I owe her a lot of my happiness). This is the woman who I fell in love with first. (that's right, on our 2nd "date" I met his mom and fell in love! I HOPED I would fall in LOVE with JT so that she could be my mother in law! So I guess I owe her the fact that I even Love her son!) This is the woman who welcomed me into her home and family after only 3 weeks of dating her son! (I owe her my immediate acceptance and comfort in her home) This is the woman who shares my talent for weeping! (she may be the only person who tears up more than I do! I owe her a few tears for that!) This is the woman who invites me to sing around the piano with her on Sundays or Holidays (which is better than dessert for me! and that is saying alot. I owe her the love JT has for music) This is the woman who has been an example of Quiet Dignity. (something I strived to attain on my mission with little success-- obviously. I owe her my desire to keep trying!) This is the woman who lets me lay around her pool all summer long, or at least the 3 days that it is warm around here! (I owe her my Vitamin D and the 3 freckles I get each year!)
So there you have it. My Mothers. How blessed am I to have two wonderful women to look up to, be friends with, and love??
Happy Mother's Day. Thanks for "Loving Our Faces."
Thursday, April 4, 2013
I Lost My BFF
It's been a month and half since I last touched my Best Friend. You know the old T.V. shows where the sad kids were staring longingly out the window of an old wood-paneled station wagon, waving good bye to the neighborhood of friends as their family moved far away across the country. Even the dog would be crammed in the back moping with the children. (ahhh the good old days before seat belts, when kids could travel cross country climbing from front to back of a mile long station wagon while Mom was nursing the youngest in the front seat and Dad was listening to A.M. radio) Our hearts broke for those kids separated by miles and miles - before Facebook could keep them connected every second of every day. And now I feel like I can relate.
I never moved miles and miles away from my Best Friend. (Accept on my Mission when I went to Madagascar... which was miles and miles from pretty much everything.) But recently I have looked through the window, with a sad face and heavy heart as I passed by the McDonald's Play Land. Through the steamy windows I can see the bright, happy faces of Moms whose kids are distracted by a twisty plastic slide that might as well be a petri dish for all of the bacteria it is growing. Those moms, who don't even notice me with my face pressed up against the glass full of jealousy and longing, are not just happy because they can have 20 minutes of peace and quiet on the Pinterest App while their kids run wild with a trail of french fries in their wake, they are happy because they are there with their Best Friends.
To you it may appear like they are sitting alone, at an empty table piled high with hamburger wrappers and broken Happy Meal toys. You don't see any conversations or laughter with friends. You just don't understand.
I see a woman, with joy on her face and a Large Diet Coke in her hand. It is glistening with condensation from the cold ice that caresses a dark bubbly nectar. The straw has a tiny bit of lip gloss on the top- mostly to ward of any kids who might think it is their drink and unknowingly sip from the forbidden cup. The way that the woman keeps her hand loosely around the cup at all times demonstrates their connection and deep love even while mindlessly flipping through photos of DIY projects and thousands of desserts on Pinterest. I know that they are Best Friends. They are happy just to be together. We have all had the kind of friendships that we describe as being perfect because you can just be together, without even having to talk. I am pretty sure we are all talking about the same Best Friend: Diet Coke.
Truth be told, in recent years I have grown much closer to Dr. Pepper. (But I seem to be a Southerner who calls all soda "Coke", or in my case a Diet Coke. Sorry, Dr. Pepper, I may never get your name right.). The amazing thing about switching from Diet Coke to Dr. Pepper (and sometimes Dr. Pepper 10 when I need to feel tough like the guys on the commercial) is that Diet Coke never got jealous. That is what true friendship is all about. Unconditional Love. And in return I have never been jealous of another woman's relationship with Diet Coke. It isn't like sharing a man. Instead, we are happy when we discover that we share a common Bestie. In fact, it makes us instant BFF's also! We find ourselves grabbing an extra soda in the drive thru to drop off at our new friend's house. We talk for hours comparing which fast food chain has the best fountain, and what new flavors we have come up with since Taco Time and Burger King have installed their Coca Cola Freestyle machines. We even fantasize about the day that our refrigerators come equipped with a touch screen Freestyle of their own! We commiserate over the worst DC we have ever had (if you have been out of the country you know what I mean) or the best one we ever had- when the ice to soda ratio was perfect and the straw was not too long, not too short. We talk about the times that DC has been there for us- when no one else was. The times the kids have destroyed the house and you know that the only thing that can keep you from destroying them in return is the hope of the drive thru after bedtime and alone time with your Best Friend. Or the times we really need to celebrate, and being non-alcoholic Mormons, the best way is to hear the crack and fiz of a can straight out of the ice chest bursting open in your hand.
Some of you may be absolutely confused by this post. It is probably because you have never had a Bestie like Diet Coke or Dr. Pepper. My heart goes out to you.
So here I am. I have left behind my Best Friend. Pulled away in my station wagon, so to speak, and given it up for my 90 Day Goals. In the beginning, I couldn't take my mind off of Diet Coke. There were times I felt exhausted and I longed for the caffeine. There were moments where I was drained from the kids and I missed the special drive thru treat that a cold soda has always been. My hand misses the feel of the cup, and my lips miss the plasticy taste of the straw. And my soul missed the immediate pick me up of a first sip (no sip is as good as the first, that's why my brother is really mean when he steals my sister in laws first sip. Not cool, Jeff, not cool.). I haven't had any headaches- probably because I was not a daily drinker- so I haven't had any physical withdrawals. But I am not kidding when I say the first month I had some serious emotional withdrawals. I missed DC like I would miss a Best Friend.
Now that I am half way through the 90 Days, I am starting to wonder what is next? Do I return to our old friendship? Probably not, I had good reason for leaving. Do I give it up forever? Do I try to save it for "special occasions" (like Tuesdays and Thursdays or days that the kids are hard?) Or is this like an alcoholic who just needs to know they can never start it up again with out sliding back in? (Yes, I know, we are not talking about alcohol. I am only using the comparison for my "addiction".)
The crazy thing is that I don't know ANYONE who has ever done this. I don't know anyone who has LOVED soda (the way I love DC, the kind of love that makes you weep when you are at a movie theater because Popcorn is impossible to eat without one) and then totally given it up.
If you, or someone you know, has had a Soda Bestie and is now Soda Sober- please have them contact me! I need a group! I need someone who can say they understand, that they too find themselves avoiding all the old familiar places (like 7-11 because they have amazing fountain drinks or backyard BBQ's because there is bound to be an ice chest) and have found a new life with water.
(You think I am kidding, don't you? I'm not, I really need to find someone who gets it.)
I've lost a Best Friend, but don't worry I gained two pounds. (Yep, that's right, they lie on the Biggest Loser when they say you will lose weight if you give up soda. Not me, even after drinking super calorie Dr. Pepper!) But I am staying strong. Partly because it is one of my 90 Day Goals- and I don't fail on those. And partly because I get really really bad headaches when I start drinking caffeine again. (I swear I almost went blind after my mission because of the caffeine overload when I returned home.) And the scar still remains. I am still just that kid in the back of the station wagon (which totally makes me throw up so I hated sitting back there) waving good bye to a neighborhood of friends named Diet Coke and Dr. Pepper. I'll never forget you, friends. (Mostly because people like Crystal keeping showing up at the park with their giant 42 ounce fountain drinks!)
I never moved miles and miles away from my Best Friend. (Accept on my Mission when I went to Madagascar... which was miles and miles from pretty much everything.) But recently I have looked through the window, with a sad face and heavy heart as I passed by the McDonald's Play Land. Through the steamy windows I can see the bright, happy faces of Moms whose kids are distracted by a twisty plastic slide that might as well be a petri dish for all of the bacteria it is growing. Those moms, who don't even notice me with my face pressed up against the glass full of jealousy and longing, are not just happy because they can have 20 minutes of peace and quiet on the Pinterest App while their kids run wild with a trail of french fries in their wake, they are happy because they are there with their Best Friends.
To you it may appear like they are sitting alone, at an empty table piled high with hamburger wrappers and broken Happy Meal toys. You don't see any conversations or laughter with friends. You just don't understand.
I see a woman, with joy on her face and a Large Diet Coke in her hand. It is glistening with condensation from the cold ice that caresses a dark bubbly nectar. The straw has a tiny bit of lip gloss on the top- mostly to ward of any kids who might think it is their drink and unknowingly sip from the forbidden cup. The way that the woman keeps her hand loosely around the cup at all times demonstrates their connection and deep love even while mindlessly flipping through photos of DIY projects and thousands of desserts on Pinterest. I know that they are Best Friends. They are happy just to be together. We have all had the kind of friendships that we describe as being perfect because you can just be together, without even having to talk. I am pretty sure we are all talking about the same Best Friend: Diet Coke.
Truth be told, in recent years I have grown much closer to Dr. Pepper. (But I seem to be a Southerner who calls all soda "Coke", or in my case a Diet Coke. Sorry, Dr. Pepper, I may never get your name right.). The amazing thing about switching from Diet Coke to Dr. Pepper (and sometimes Dr. Pepper 10 when I need to feel tough like the guys on the commercial) is that Diet Coke never got jealous. That is what true friendship is all about. Unconditional Love. And in return I have never been jealous of another woman's relationship with Diet Coke. It isn't like sharing a man. Instead, we are happy when we discover that we share a common Bestie. In fact, it makes us instant BFF's also! We find ourselves grabbing an extra soda in the drive thru to drop off at our new friend's house. We talk for hours comparing which fast food chain has the best fountain, and what new flavors we have come up with since Taco Time and Burger King have installed their Coca Cola Freestyle machines. We even fantasize about the day that our refrigerators come equipped with a touch screen Freestyle of their own! We commiserate over the worst DC we have ever had (if you have been out of the country you know what I mean) or the best one we ever had- when the ice to soda ratio was perfect and the straw was not too long, not too short. We talk about the times that DC has been there for us- when no one else was. The times the kids have destroyed the house and you know that the only thing that can keep you from destroying them in return is the hope of the drive thru after bedtime and alone time with your Best Friend. Or the times we really need to celebrate, and being non-alcoholic Mormons, the best way is to hear the crack and fiz of a can straight out of the ice chest bursting open in your hand.
Some of you may be absolutely confused by this post. It is probably because you have never had a Bestie like Diet Coke or Dr. Pepper. My heart goes out to you.
So here I am. I have left behind my Best Friend. Pulled away in my station wagon, so to speak, and given it up for my 90 Day Goals. In the beginning, I couldn't take my mind off of Diet Coke. There were times I felt exhausted and I longed for the caffeine. There were moments where I was drained from the kids and I missed the special drive thru treat that a cold soda has always been. My hand misses the feel of the cup, and my lips miss the plasticy taste of the straw. And my soul missed the immediate pick me up of a first sip (no sip is as good as the first, that's why my brother is really mean when he steals my sister in laws first sip. Not cool, Jeff, not cool.). I haven't had any headaches- probably because I was not a daily drinker- so I haven't had any physical withdrawals. But I am not kidding when I say the first month I had some serious emotional withdrawals. I missed DC like I would miss a Best Friend.
Now that I am half way through the 90 Days, I am starting to wonder what is next? Do I return to our old friendship? Probably not, I had good reason for leaving. Do I give it up forever? Do I try to save it for "special occasions" (like Tuesdays and Thursdays or days that the kids are hard?) Or is this like an alcoholic who just needs to know they can never start it up again with out sliding back in? (Yes, I know, we are not talking about alcohol. I am only using the comparison for my "addiction".)
The crazy thing is that I don't know ANYONE who has ever done this. I don't know anyone who has LOVED soda (the way I love DC, the kind of love that makes you weep when you are at a movie theater because Popcorn is impossible to eat without one) and then totally given it up.
If you, or someone you know, has had a Soda Bestie and is now Soda Sober- please have them contact me! I need a group! I need someone who can say they understand, that they too find themselves avoiding all the old familiar places (like 7-11 because they have amazing fountain drinks or backyard BBQ's because there is bound to be an ice chest) and have found a new life with water.
(You think I am kidding, don't you? I'm not, I really need to find someone who gets it.)
I've lost a Best Friend, but don't worry I gained two pounds. (Yep, that's right, they lie on the Biggest Loser when they say you will lose weight if you give up soda. Not me, even after drinking super calorie Dr. Pepper!) But I am staying strong. Partly because it is one of my 90 Day Goals- and I don't fail on those. And partly because I get really really bad headaches when I start drinking caffeine again. (I swear I almost went blind after my mission because of the caffeine overload when I returned home.) And the scar still remains. I am still just that kid in the back of the station wagon (which totally makes me throw up so I hated sitting back there) waving good bye to a neighborhood of friends named Diet Coke and Dr. Pepper. I'll never forget you, friends. (Mostly because people like Crystal keeping showing up at the park with their giant 42 ounce fountain drinks!)
Monday, March 25, 2013
The Lazy River
Remember a year or so ago when I took you on a wild Roller Coaster Ride? (One of my favorite blog posts ever.) In that post you got a taste for how we felt the last few years on our journey to P.A. school. Well, I thought it was about time I check in with you all to let you know how it is working out. We left off in California getting off of the Viper...
The plane lands in Las Vegas. The sun is shining, the strip is bustling, and the palm trees are smiling down on me. With a Virgin Pina Colada in hand I find myself in an inner-tube floating down the Lazy River. This is the life. I may not be staying in the SkyLofts, (the most expensive suites in Vegas, I saw it on the Travel Channel once) but I am pretty darn content with my little room and access to all of the fun vegas has to offer.
As I wind down the river soaking up the sunshine, there are a few moments where it tucks behind the clouds and the cold breeze reminds me that it isn't always hot in the dessert. But at least there are palm trees. Every now and then I am swept under a small waterfall, which seems like no big deal except it messes up my hair and waters down my pina colada. But all in all, who can complain? Not me, this is definitely better than the rain they are getting back in Washington. I am not really speeding through the river, which is no surprise, and it is much longer than the one at Wild Waves, but I am still enjoying the ride. And for what it is worth, I am glad I am here.
So there you go. P.A. school in a nutshell. (For me, anyways, JT's experience is probably quite different.) We are still living in Jennifer Tingey's basement, which turns out to be just right. Ok, ok, it isn't the SkyLofts either-- but come on-- Highpointe? We are just fine.
It's been about a year since JT started the program (it was only part time in the beginning which was nice to ease into this change of life style) and is now in full swing. Everyone told me how hard it would be with him in school this much and with him studying all night- but honestly it is way easier than the last few years of him working two jobs and going to school! Comparatively speaking- this is a piece of cake! Or a lazy river.
There are definitely adjustments. I do miss him. I still miss a few things about our old house. I wish we knew where we will end up. But that is pretty much equivalent to a splash of water in my drink. (Waterfalls ruining my hair or makeup are a whole other story... and I have probably had a few moments like that over the past year also.) Sometimes it feels like it will be forever- kinda like being in the desert with no sun. But being able to stay at home with my kids definitely reminds me of those smiling palm trees. It isn't racing by (it is a 2 year program, after all) but it isn't dragging on either. It is just flowing. And for now it is flowing very smoothly.
I am extremely grateful to Jennifer and Stephanie for sharing their home with us. I am always touched when I hear Jennifer mention that we "share her house". She never makes me feel like a tenant who lives in the basement. They have made us feel like a part of the family. And my kids love the extra love and attention. We really have come to feel completely at home here. (Don't worry, I won't start making breakfast in my underwear or anything.) And I feel so blessed. Financially it is a HUGE help. (Even more than I realized it would be.) And while that is a big blessing and comfort (especially for someone like me who feels a lot of anxiety about money) it is not as wonderful as knowing that we are where we belong. It still sounds crazy when I explain to people my situation, but I just smile and say that we are enjoying the ride.
I haven't mentioned enough how grateful I am that JT is in school. That he will end up with a great career which will be the perfect fit for him. I am grateful for Jennifer and her patience with us and love for us. (I honestly thank Heavenly Father daily for her.) And I am grateful that we are still here in Covington, close to our friends. For as much as I have wanted an adventure, or to live in the city, or move across the country- I am so grateful I haven't moved away from my friends.
A little less exciting than a Roller Coaster, but we were ready for a little less excitement around here :)
The plane lands in Las Vegas. The sun is shining, the strip is bustling, and the palm trees are smiling down on me. With a Virgin Pina Colada in hand I find myself in an inner-tube floating down the Lazy River. This is the life. I may not be staying in the SkyLofts, (the most expensive suites in Vegas, I saw it on the Travel Channel once) but I am pretty darn content with my little room and access to all of the fun vegas has to offer.
As I wind down the river soaking up the sunshine, there are a few moments where it tucks behind the clouds and the cold breeze reminds me that it isn't always hot in the dessert. But at least there are palm trees. Every now and then I am swept under a small waterfall, which seems like no big deal except it messes up my hair and waters down my pina colada. But all in all, who can complain? Not me, this is definitely better than the rain they are getting back in Washington. I am not really speeding through the river, which is no surprise, and it is much longer than the one at Wild Waves, but I am still enjoying the ride. And for what it is worth, I am glad I am here.
So there you go. P.A. school in a nutshell. (For me, anyways, JT's experience is probably quite different.) We are still living in Jennifer Tingey's basement, which turns out to be just right. Ok, ok, it isn't the SkyLofts either-- but come on-- Highpointe? We are just fine.
It's been about a year since JT started the program (it was only part time in the beginning which was nice to ease into this change of life style) and is now in full swing. Everyone told me how hard it would be with him in school this much and with him studying all night- but honestly it is way easier than the last few years of him working two jobs and going to school! Comparatively speaking- this is a piece of cake! Or a lazy river.
There are definitely adjustments. I do miss him. I still miss a few things about our old house. I wish we knew where we will end up. But that is pretty much equivalent to a splash of water in my drink. (Waterfalls ruining my hair or makeup are a whole other story... and I have probably had a few moments like that over the past year also.) Sometimes it feels like it will be forever- kinda like being in the desert with no sun. But being able to stay at home with my kids definitely reminds me of those smiling palm trees. It isn't racing by (it is a 2 year program, after all) but it isn't dragging on either. It is just flowing. And for now it is flowing very smoothly.
I am extremely grateful to Jennifer and Stephanie for sharing their home with us. I am always touched when I hear Jennifer mention that we "share her house". She never makes me feel like a tenant who lives in the basement. They have made us feel like a part of the family. And my kids love the extra love and attention. We really have come to feel completely at home here. (Don't worry, I won't start making breakfast in my underwear or anything.) And I feel so blessed. Financially it is a HUGE help. (Even more than I realized it would be.) And while that is a big blessing and comfort (especially for someone like me who feels a lot of anxiety about money) it is not as wonderful as knowing that we are where we belong. It still sounds crazy when I explain to people my situation, but I just smile and say that we are enjoying the ride.
I haven't mentioned enough how grateful I am that JT is in school. That he will end up with a great career which will be the perfect fit for him. I am grateful for Jennifer and her patience with us and love for us. (I honestly thank Heavenly Father daily for her.) And I am grateful that we are still here in Covington, close to our friends. For as much as I have wanted an adventure, or to live in the city, or move across the country- I am so grateful I haven't moved away from my friends.
A little less exciting than a Roller Coaster, but we were ready for a little less excitement around here :)
Sunday, March 17, 2013
Be Cool, Like Me
People are always asking me how I became so cool. They usually ask if I was born this way, or if I have had to work hard at being so cool. I have been asked to teach seminars, write books, and share my secrets. Which I usually won't do. Sorry, kids. I was just born like this. (Which is obvious if you have met Macie and you already recognize her natural coolness.)
But for those of you who are still dying to be cool, who may or may not have been born with coolness in your genes, I am giving out this one piece of advice. This little secret. This once in a lifetime opportunity.
If you want to be cool, like me, you should run a half marathon with me on May 4th 2013.
Guaranteed coolness will follow.
I realize that not everyone is at a place in life to get up and run a half marathon. I know I wasn't. But it's been my goal to train for and complete a Half Marathon in 90 days... also making me cool. (and very tired) So this invitation is for those of you who already can easily run 3 or so miles. You can do this too. (It is a fast and flat course with just a few rolling hills, which means even if you are a wimp like me, who can hardly make it up the hills, you can still do this!)
For the rest of you (who may hate running, or be pregnant, or have bad knees or whatever) there is still hope. You, too, can still be cool even if you don't run with me. You can come and cheer for me. That makes you very cool, just by association! No effort required! All you have to do is show up on race day and cheer for me when I cross the finish line (on my hands and knees panting for air and delusional with exhaustion). Not only will this make you cool- it will immediately launch you into the position of Best Friends. (I know, I know, this is the biggest news you have heard all day!) And help me when I want to give up at the 8 mile mark and go out for donuts.
So here are some details.
Cinco De Mayo Half Marathon. (Which I hope means they will serve Pina Coladas instead of Gatorade)
aka The Snoqualmie Valley Half Marathon & 8K (Oh yeah, that means if a Half is not your style you can do the 8k!!)
May 4th, 2013
Beginning at 9 a.m. at Mt Si High School.
I would LOVE to run with you, see you there, and watch you advance in your coolness.
P.S. For those of you, like the Nelsons, who are already cool by nature, you can still come support your sister/aunt/daughter/favorite cousin and lend your example of coolness to the others.
But for those of you who are still dying to be cool, who may or may not have been born with coolness in your genes, I am giving out this one piece of advice. This little secret. This once in a lifetime opportunity.
If you want to be cool, like me, you should run a half marathon with me on May 4th 2013.
Guaranteed coolness will follow.
I realize that not everyone is at a place in life to get up and run a half marathon. I know I wasn't. But it's been my goal to train for and complete a Half Marathon in 90 days... also making me cool. (and very tired) So this invitation is for those of you who already can easily run 3 or so miles. You can do this too. (It is a fast and flat course with just a few rolling hills, which means even if you are a wimp like me, who can hardly make it up the hills, you can still do this!)
For the rest of you (who may hate running, or be pregnant, or have bad knees or whatever) there is still hope. You, too, can still be cool even if you don't run with me. You can come and cheer for me. That makes you very cool, just by association! No effort required! All you have to do is show up on race day and cheer for me when I cross the finish line (on my hands and knees panting for air and delusional with exhaustion). Not only will this make you cool- it will immediately launch you into the position of Best Friends. (I know, I know, this is the biggest news you have heard all day!) And help me when I want to give up at the 8 mile mark and go out for donuts.
So here are some details.
Cinco De Mayo Half Marathon. (Which I hope means they will serve Pina Coladas instead of Gatorade)
aka The Snoqualmie Valley Half Marathon & 8K (Oh yeah, that means if a Half is not your style you can do the 8k!!)
May 4th, 2013
Beginning at 9 a.m. at Mt Si High School.
I would LOVE to run with you, see you there, and watch you advance in your coolness.
P.S. For those of you, like the Nelsons, who are already cool by nature, you can still come support your sister/aunt/daughter/favorite cousin and lend your example of coolness to the others.
 |
| People who are already cool for running a 10K with me on my 30th Birthday. In 38 degree weather! |
 |
| You, too, could look this cool crossing the finish line with me. |
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Open Heart Surgery
It's been a touchy day around our house this morning. We haven't really experienced anything like this before. When a loved one has to go into surgery. The hardest part is that my mom wasn't here for us. I guess that is one of the difficult things about having parents who are serving a mision for the church. They are pretty dedicated to their service and aren't able to fly home for events like this. Even an event as significant as Open Heart Surgery.
The inspiring thing today was watching my kids rally around me and support each other. I didn't expect them to face this so young. At only three years old this is a lot to try to understand.
In a year or so, when JT is done with his schooling, he will be able to perform these types of surgeries with his new skills. I think we can all take comfort in that. And I look forward to the day when this is his responsibility.
But for now, with my Mom on her mission, and JT still in school, it all came down to me.
The Patient: our beloved (though often stinky and dirty) "Boom Boom". Macie's Best Friend since birth.
As you can see, he has been in pretty bad shape. Besides the stains (and yes, he has always been Gray- he isn't that dirty!) and the noticeably saggy bottom ( let's be honest, it happens to all of us with age and wear) there are three large holes in his chest.
You can see that the poor patient has a hole in his back making it an even more serious case when you see how easy it is to stick a finger through his chest cavity.
Like I said, I was on my own. No support. No one with experience in these types of situations. Just me and my kids and a needle and thread.
I have seen enough of Gray's Anatomy to know that Family is not normally allowed in the OR for surgery. But how could I send Macie and Blake away? After all, Macie needs to be stroking his tiny tail between her fingers for comfort. So with needle and thread, a child on my lap tugging on his lifeless tail, I held the patient, Boom Boom, in my hands and I went to work.
After what felt like hours in the OR (stitching 6 holes front and back) he woke up in recovery in the loving arms of his best friend Macie.
"Now you can grow big like me and start walking and talking Boom Boom!" Macie exclaimed as she snuggled the mangled stitched up mess of her Kitty.
I didn't have it in me to explain to her that even stitched up (and maybe run through the wash on Delicate- since my stitches won't hold up to Normal Wash) Boom Boom may never be the same again. And most likely won't grow up to live a normal life and walk and talk like her. I guess I am just not the surgeon they needed me to be.
Hopefully this repair will last until my Mom (the real stuffed animal surgeon) gets home from her mission, or until JT perfects his suturing technique (preferably on someone else before we make Boom Boom go back under the needle).
Thanks for all of your love and good thoughts as we went through this trial. Boom Boom promises to take a bath to show his gratitude.
The inspiring thing today was watching my kids rally around me and support each other. I didn't expect them to face this so young. At only three years old this is a lot to try to understand.
In a year or so, when JT is done with his schooling, he will be able to perform these types of surgeries with his new skills. I think we can all take comfort in that. And I look forward to the day when this is his responsibility.
But for now, with my Mom on her mission, and JT still in school, it all came down to me.
The Patient: our beloved (though often stinky and dirty) "Boom Boom". Macie's Best Friend since birth.
Like I said, I was on my own. No support. No one with experience in these types of situations. Just me and my kids and a needle and thread.
I have seen enough of Gray's Anatomy to know that Family is not normally allowed in the OR for surgery. But how could I send Macie and Blake away? After all, Macie needs to be stroking his tiny tail between her fingers for comfort. So with needle and thread, a child on my lap tugging on his lifeless tail, I held the patient, Boom Boom, in my hands and I went to work.
After what felt like hours in the OR (stitching 6 holes front and back) he woke up in recovery in the loving arms of his best friend Macie.
"Now you can grow big like me and start walking and talking Boom Boom!" Macie exclaimed as she snuggled the mangled stitched up mess of her Kitty.
I didn't have it in me to explain to her that even stitched up (and maybe run through the wash on Delicate- since my stitches won't hold up to Normal Wash) Boom Boom may never be the same again. And most likely won't grow up to live a normal life and walk and talk like her. I guess I am just not the surgeon they needed me to be.
Hopefully this repair will last until my Mom (the real stuffed animal surgeon) gets home from her mission, or until JT perfects his suturing technique (preferably on someone else before we make Boom Boom go back under the needle).
Thanks for all of your love and good thoughts as we went through this trial. Boom Boom promises to take a bath to show his gratitude.
Monday, February 11, 2013
90 More Days??
Today kicks off my second round of 90 Day Goals. I joined a group a few years ago where we set goals in 5 areas of our lives and devote 90 days to completing them. It was life changing last time- and I am hoping for the same thing this time. The goals are suppose to make you a little uncomfortable, maybe seem slightly out of reach, or at least cause you to have to stay focused and work hard for the entire 90 days. What may seem like a challenge to me could be laughable to most of you (really, you may laugh at me) but that is the fun of goal setting with a group. We help each other, encourage each other, and strengthen each other throughout the entire process.
So that I can have it in a hard copy somewhere, and with the hopes that some of you might help me stay accountable or cheer me on, I am writing them down here.
Here we go, 90 Days.
PHYSICAL
Run a Half Marathon. (You know how I always laugh when I see a 13.1 sticker on the back of someone's car because it doesn't look nearly as tough as a 26.3 sticker? Yep, that will be me!)
I am most nervous/excited for this goal. Coming off a recent back injury it seems nearly impossible, but I am determined to work hard (and carefully) to get my body to do this! Anyone want to join me??
Give up all soda (and replace with water).
No fast food or french fries.
These last two are going to be pretty challenging. Way harder than they should be. Mostly because I have emotional attachments to both. Soda has always been my special treat, my little pick me up, my reward for a hard day. It is a quick answer to the kids driving me nuts, to attacking a daunting cleaning task, or to a girl's night out. It means much more to me than caffeine. But I have read enough articles, and have a healthy enough fear of cancer that I am realizing it is time to start eliminating the carcinogens that I can control. Pouty Face. The same goes for fast food. It is the answer to a busy day, to an already messy kitchen, to a special treat with my kids (not so special anymore since we do it all the time!), or to simple lack of planning. But I know I would feel better (do better in a half marathon) and be a better mom without it.
Wow. I think I will need a therapist just to get through this one aspect of the next 90 days!
MENTAL
Sudoku Yes, I am going to play sudoku for 5 minutes a day. What, you say? Katie playing with numbers? Isn't that like handing your kids a pack of matches? Something you just don't do. We all know I have had an abusive relationship with all things numbers. But they are supposedly good for your brain (like green veggies for your body) so it is time I plug my nose and swallow.
Learn 10 new technical things- whether on my phone or my new silhouette. This is where you can laugh. Don't most people love to play with their new technology? Aren't most husbands asking their wives to turn off the silhouette and come to bed? Well, it all overwhelms me- and hurts my brain. But I desperately want to overcome that. So this is a good place to start.
PERSONAL
Read and implemant the book The Magic. It was referred to me by fellow goal groupers when I was looking for something a little different than a Gratitude Journal. A physical way to really count my blessing and immerse myself in positivity.
Pray for, and do a simple act of kindness every day. This may be as simple as a text to someone I haven't talked to in a long time or as big as doing someone's dishes. (If you knew how much I can't stand other peoples' dirty dishes you would gasp with admiration that I am considering doing them as an act of kindness) I have had really amazing experiences doing this in the past- for a week at a time- so I am looking forward to seeing some tender moments over the next few months.
Daily Calendar I did this last 90 Day Goals and loved it. As a Stay at Home Mom it is easy to not budget your time well. (At least when your kids are all at home and not in school/sports/mutual etc) This is to help me be more productive - so that I am able to do accomplish all of these goals.
Connect with my Children Daily I am really excited for this one as well. I am going to leave my phone, the computer, all distraction in another room and get down on the floor with my kids. It is so easy to get busy doing all of the "necessary" things in my day with my kids near me, but not connecting with me.
FINANCIAL
Budget, Budget, Budget Plan it, stick to it, love it, live it. I am going to cut out unnecessary spending. (Cutting out soda and fast food is going to take care of a big part of that!) And find a way to lessen the amount of student loans we are borrowing.
SPIRITUAL
Study Lesson Material for my class every day. I teach the 16 and 17 year old Sunday School class at church. (Which I love) And we have a new (amazing) curriculum this year. Each lesson is more of a topical and less of a chronoligical study of scripture. So I will study material based on the topic throughout the week. *very excited for this one*
Prayer I would like to improve my relationship with my Heavenly Father through better prayer. Last 90 Day Goals, one of my goals was to pray in the mornings, I did this by making my bed in the morning. The extra few minutes in my room slowed me down enough to remember to pray. Now I would like to spend a few minutes meditating and clearing my mind so that my prayers are more focused and sincere.
Go to the Temple Every Month. This has always been a no brainer for me. JT and I have had a good habit of going every month since we started dating. But with him in school, and studying every minute that he isn't in school, this has really slipped the last 6 months. It shows how quickly something can go from an easy way of life to a habit of the past. So, it is back on my radar and on my list of things to do.
Today kicks it all off. I am really excited and nervous when I see how much I have bit off. It is a lot to commit and hope for, but I am determined and I have a great support group to help me accomplish it.
So if you see me sneaking in to the McDonalds Drive Thru for $1 worth of "Happiness" (which is what we call soda ever since McD's had that awesome bill board that said that Happiness only costs $1 - with a picture of giant ice cold soda) you have my permission to call me, yell out your window, or crash into the side of the restaraunt to prevent me from making a bad choice!
Wish me luck, I only have 90 more days!
So that I can have it in a hard copy somewhere, and with the hopes that some of you might help me stay accountable or cheer me on, I am writing them down here.
Here we go, 90 Days.
PHYSICAL
Run a Half Marathon. (You know how I always laugh when I see a 13.1 sticker on the back of someone's car because it doesn't look nearly as tough as a 26.3 sticker? Yep, that will be me!)
I am most nervous/excited for this goal. Coming off a recent back injury it seems nearly impossible, but I am determined to work hard (and carefully) to get my body to do this! Anyone want to join me??
Give up all soda (and replace with water).
No fast food or french fries.
These last two are going to be pretty challenging. Way harder than they should be. Mostly because I have emotional attachments to both. Soda has always been my special treat, my little pick me up, my reward for a hard day. It is a quick answer to the kids driving me nuts, to attacking a daunting cleaning task, or to a girl's night out. It means much more to me than caffeine. But I have read enough articles, and have a healthy enough fear of cancer that I am realizing it is time to start eliminating the carcinogens that I can control. Pouty Face. The same goes for fast food. It is the answer to a busy day, to an already messy kitchen, to a special treat with my kids (not so special anymore since we do it all the time!), or to simple lack of planning. But I know I would feel better (do better in a half marathon) and be a better mom without it.
Wow. I think I will need a therapist just to get through this one aspect of the next 90 days!
MENTAL
Sudoku Yes, I am going to play sudoku for 5 minutes a day. What, you say? Katie playing with numbers? Isn't that like handing your kids a pack of matches? Something you just don't do. We all know I have had an abusive relationship with all things numbers. But they are supposedly good for your brain (like green veggies for your body) so it is time I plug my nose and swallow.
Learn 10 new technical things- whether on my phone or my new silhouette. This is where you can laugh. Don't most people love to play with their new technology? Aren't most husbands asking their wives to turn off the silhouette and come to bed? Well, it all overwhelms me- and hurts my brain. But I desperately want to overcome that. So this is a good place to start.
PERSONAL
Read and implemant the book The Magic. It was referred to me by fellow goal groupers when I was looking for something a little different than a Gratitude Journal. A physical way to really count my blessing and immerse myself in positivity.
Pray for, and do a simple act of kindness every day. This may be as simple as a text to someone I haven't talked to in a long time or as big as doing someone's dishes. (If you knew how much I can't stand other peoples' dirty dishes you would gasp with admiration that I am considering doing them as an act of kindness) I have had really amazing experiences doing this in the past- for a week at a time- so I am looking forward to seeing some tender moments over the next few months.
Daily Calendar I did this last 90 Day Goals and loved it. As a Stay at Home Mom it is easy to not budget your time well. (At least when your kids are all at home and not in school/sports/mutual etc) This is to help me be more productive - so that I am able to do accomplish all of these goals.
Connect with my Children Daily I am really excited for this one as well. I am going to leave my phone, the computer, all distraction in another room and get down on the floor with my kids. It is so easy to get busy doing all of the "necessary" things in my day with my kids near me, but not connecting with me.
FINANCIAL
Budget, Budget, Budget Plan it, stick to it, love it, live it. I am going to cut out unnecessary spending. (Cutting out soda and fast food is going to take care of a big part of that!) And find a way to lessen the amount of student loans we are borrowing.
SPIRITUAL
Study Lesson Material for my class every day. I teach the 16 and 17 year old Sunday School class at church. (Which I love) And we have a new (amazing) curriculum this year. Each lesson is more of a topical and less of a chronoligical study of scripture. So I will study material based on the topic throughout the week. *very excited for this one*
Prayer I would like to improve my relationship with my Heavenly Father through better prayer. Last 90 Day Goals, one of my goals was to pray in the mornings, I did this by making my bed in the morning. The extra few minutes in my room slowed me down enough to remember to pray. Now I would like to spend a few minutes meditating and clearing my mind so that my prayers are more focused and sincere.
Go to the Temple Every Month. This has always been a no brainer for me. JT and I have had a good habit of going every month since we started dating. But with him in school, and studying every minute that he isn't in school, this has really slipped the last 6 months. It shows how quickly something can go from an easy way of life to a habit of the past. So, it is back on my radar and on my list of things to do.
Today kicks it all off. I am really excited and nervous when I see how much I have bit off. It is a lot to commit and hope for, but I am determined and I have a great support group to help me accomplish it.
So if you see me sneaking in to the McDonalds Drive Thru for $1 worth of "Happiness" (which is what we call soda ever since McD's had that awesome bill board that said that Happiness only costs $1 - with a picture of giant ice cold soda) you have my permission to call me, yell out your window, or crash into the side of the restaraunt to prevent me from making a bad choice!
Wish me luck, I only have 90 more days!
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