Wordless Wednesday...not so wordless after all

We finally caved and got our 13 year old princess a cell phone. She has been asking for a few years now and I truly think she was the only one left in her school without one. I decided it would really be nice to get in touch with her right when we need her...as the school doesn't have pay phones anymore and when she stays after school she has to ask all her friends to borrow their phones when she needs us. So anyway she's now texting like a pro and super excited. I've never seen her cry this much on Christmas:)


This little monkey's favorite present was his vacuum cleaner. He hasn't let that thing out of his sight. And no one else is allowed to play with it. When we've been gone all day he runs straight to it as if it's his long lost best friend. And he will play with it for hours. I may buy another one incase something happens to it. His older brother dressed him in this police uniform:)

Little Tooker is very into dress up right now. He wears all of the big boys old halloween costumes all the time. We found this military suit and police uniform at Toys R Us and I knew he had to have it. They had a doctor and a surgeon one that we might end up going back to get. They will be fun for him and my daycare kids.


And Bubby has been wanting a first baseman glove. He's been playing baseball for 4 seasons and after his great plays at first base during all-stars he's been pleading for a different glove. Mostly because he wants to be like the big boys and once he heard they made a glove for his specific base he had to have it.


And on the weight loss front...the kids are getting the idea. My 4 year came in the kitchen today while I was making my lunch and he said "Are you making that bikini squash again?" I couldn't stop laughing. I was sauteeing zucchini and squash which I have done a lot of lately but he called it "bikini squash". Well if this squash gets me in a bikini then I will eat it everyday day ha!

I'm a very spoiled and happy girl!

Merry Christmas to all! I for one had an awesome day. An awesome week for that matter...although it is a blur of sorts and I'm not sure I have even cooked dinner once. Wow that's weird. We had a lot of sandwiches, eggs and all things left over. I have thoroughly enjoyed a Green Monster everyday and lots of egg white omelets w/ spinach and low-fat string cheese melted in and lots and lots of zucchini and squash sauteed on the side. Yummy yummy yummy! Although I have heard a few grunts from hubby when I say "I'm not cooking dinner tonight. Pick anything you can find we are too busy." We just have had so much going on.

Anyway, I am also quite proud that I have managed to dodge rain storms and hit the pavement many times this week. This is good considering all the cookies and fudge that are making their way down to my thighs. I have got to find someone who needs all this and pay them a visit:)

I was able to go out Christmas Eve for a very long run before the torrential downpour began. And hubby blessed me with lots of goodies for Christmas that I was able to use on my run today. New Asics (wow amazing my feet, knees and ankles were just giddy), several running headbands to keep my ears warm and hair back, Addidas watch (thanks mommy), several UGA t-shirts and hoodie sweatshirts for comfy workouts, and a new notebook/lap top (not for running with but I can now sit comfortably reading my bloggies in bed). On top of my Droid phone I am a spoiled girl this Christmas. My mom also got us new pots and pans to replace our peeling old ones. And other goodies from the kiddies.

The kids got all that they wanted and have other gift cards to go spend as well. We took them to see the new Alvin and the Chipmunks movie...and even little Monkey enjoyed it. He's 19 months and I can't believe he sat though the whole thing. Then we headed to my aunt's for dinner (rib roast and various goodies). I sampled a little of everything and was so proud that once I felt full I stopped. I literally had a two or three bits of everythings...when before I would fill my plate again b/c it ws so yuumy. But this year I was able to tell myself "I'm full. It was good and I know how it tastes, but my body doesn't need any more."

I didn't count my points (I started off w/ two breakfast casseroles but only had a piece of each one hashbrown and one egg and sausage). I did't over do it and felt good about myself afterward. But then it was a busy day and I never stopped to write down anything. But I didn't have any popcorn or candy at the movies b/c well I just wasn't intersted. Usually I would get it and eat it b/c that was the things to do. This time the kids shared the popcorn and hubby and I had a DCoke. Anyway, I am feeling great. And I am excited about my progress. I ran for an hour today and then came home and did 20 minutes of a Yoga/Pilates DVD. I am excited for way in this Tuesday. I am not expecting a lot but at least a pound or two that I gained back last week during my very off week.

I'm excited to try out several Weight Watchers recipes this week. And now no excuses for not counting points with my new notebook I can sit in bed at night and type it all in. I should get soem pics. of Christmas up sometime this afternoon. Agian Merry Christmas to all!

The time has come -

Well it's here, the week of Christmas. The week the kids and I look forward to all year. This year it seems to have come faster than other years. I mean it seems like we just rang in 2009 and it's already gone. We had a great year! We did so many things and I am imagining 2010 and how exciting it's going to be.

It's also the week I joined Weight Watchers. I was excited to know I get three more points than I remember getting last time I joined after baby #3 and #4. I am also excited about the extra weekly points. I am sure those will be used up on Christmas day...if I can stop taste testing all the goodies beforehand. Today is day 3 on the program. I am starving this morning more than usual. I have already had breakfast, so I am seeing an early snack in the near future. Then I am hoping a run will take my mind off of food for a while.

I have been lacking motivation and finding it very easy to skip my workouts. It seems like having the kids home from school and not working coupled with the never ending shopping list has kept me pretty busy. By the time the cleaning and cooking and ... are all finished I can easily tell myself "I'll do it tomorrow." And well tomorrow comes and before you know it it's been 5 days since I worked out. But yesterday in the middle of the day while the baby napped I had my oldest keep the others and I hit the pavement. I took the dog and did a walk/jog for 3 miles. And then a lot of vigorous floor and baseboard scrubbing.

Today I am going to go before my husband heads out to work...hoping that first this headache will go away. This is the same rut I get myself into every time I try to start thinking about losing the rest of the weight. I'm gung ho for about a week maybe two and then slowly I find myself with lots of excuses and it's hard to get back on the horse again. But not this time...I see it coming and I am determined to see this through. And besides I really like my quite runs all by myself...it's the only quite time I get you'd think I'd go for hours:)

Hope every ones week is going well and hoping it slows down a little too!

Oh Pita Chips why do you taste so good?

This past weekend at the store I found Stacy's Pita Chips...cinnamon and sugar mmmm. No No No Bad Bad Bad!!! Yes mmmm they taste so good. Super addicting. My daughter says "But they are pita chips mom not regular chips". See what a misconception. Even my 13 year old is buying into the "this is better than this blah blah blah crap". I say "Well they aren't like other chips you're right. But they are still not healthy especially when we choose to eat the WHOLE BAG!!!" Which I have done...a couple of times:(

Okay, it's my own fault. I am the grocery shopper, food preparer, and all that goes along with that. So stop buying it Danielle!

I used to tell myself "I don't smoke. I don't drink. I just enjoy a few sweets here and there. It's not a crime. We all will die from something. I might as well enjoy what I eat before I go."

Sounds good right? While I am not one to sit and eat bags of chips, scarf down a whole pizza, eat the whole carton of ice cream (well half anyway)or hit the drive thru more than once a day...I know I can make better choices. I also know what my kids see me eat will help them as they grow. My boys are all extremely active and it's actually hard to keep weight on them. But my daughter is built more like me and is not nearly as active. And at 13 it's time now for me to show her and teach her the right ways before she leaves home. I don't want her to ever get in a rut like this and have to do on any type of "diets" to get her weight down.

So not only am I on a quest for myself it's for my family too. I want them to see what eating healthy is like. See the benefits of it. See how do their bodies will feel and well their bodies will treat them if they are good to it.

I am going to look for a book this weekend on how to talk to girls about eating and such. Talking opening with her is key I know...but I also know saying the wrong things to her can completely back fire. Girls are just so much more sensitive to things like this.

And a funny story....help me to get around this please...Melissa @ Melissa's Adventures told her son he could get extra time before bed if he ate 3 bits of vegetables. So I thought I would give it a shot...3 of my kids will eat just about anything...but my 7 year old hasn't eaten a full serving of vegetables in years (a bite a day if I'm lucky). At dinner the other night I suggested he eat 3 bites and bribed him with 10 extra min. of TV or Playstation before bed. He got really excited and I was full of hope. He sniffed it (it was only lettuce w/ lots of dressing)and moved it around for a few minutes then said, "Mmmm that okay mom. 8:30 is an okay bedtime." And put his fork down. The 3 other oldest children started eating their salad saying "What do I get for eating mine?" Oh boy! Well back to the drawing board on that one. But thank you Melissa:)

Well, today is my last day of work for 2009! Wooo Hoooo!!!!! I want next week to g slow before we get to Christmas so I can enjoy some down time. HA on the agenda...a deep scrub of the house, cleaning out clutter and boxing up things, carpet cleaning, a few ortho and dentist appointments, and of course get everything ready for Christmas. We are listing our house in January (well as soon as the painter can get the outside done if the rain would stop)so I have to de-clutter and get it in tip top shape so some wonderful person will come scoop it up:)

The proof feels mighty good!

While that week two scale was not kind to me my clothes are being a little nicer. Last night we were heading out to dinner when my husband says, "Honey? Are your pants sagging?" Ah ha woo hoo! No it's not my latest fashion statement...It's my belt needing to be tightened to the next hole! And these were jeans straight out of the dryer and I didn't have to do the jeans dance. The problem was actually that after having to tighten said belt my waist looked bunchy. But that was a good feeling!

So, I see the results even though the scale isn't going down. I'll accept that and move on. This week I have not been getting out to do my runs as I am a big baby when it comes to being cold. We live in the south but to me it's mighty cold and windy. And well the stupid rain won't stay away. I have gotten in 2 Zumba classes and I have one tonight. I need to get my weights in at least twice this weekend. Then hopefully since the kids are out of school for the next two weeks and I'm off work I can get in some extra running if not outside at least at the gym.

On the plus side if running I went the other night to Sports Authority to have someone look at my feet to help with my shoes. My ankles, knees, and shins have really been bothering me. I was super excited that he didn't recommend some super expensive new shoes, but he showed me these awesome gel sole inserts. He put them in my shoes and I felt like I was walking on air! I am so in love and hope the weather will cooperate for me to run soon:)

THIS IS HOW I KNOW I CAN DO IT!
This picture was taken at my high school reunion about 10 months after baby number 4 was born.I weighed about 128/130 if I remember correctly. For some reason baby number five has thrown me for a loop. After my 4th child was born I chose to stop teaching and stay home to run a daycare. I gained 50+ pounds during his pregnancy. But somehow by the time he was 10 months old it was all gone and then some (and I did not have a gym membership like now). Maybe it was the motivation that my high school reunion was coming up, but regardless I am still 15 pounds heavier than I was when I got pregnant with number 5 and he's now 19 months old. I need to figure out what the real problem is b/c it's not baby weight. Sure food tastes good, but why do I keep eating it even after I know it tastes good but is more than I need to be eating. Whatever it is I need to stop it and move on to become that healthier me again! I have made the decision to start Weight Watchers (I did do this after baby number 3 and 4 but not consistently). So I pulled my books out this morning and started refreshing my memory about points. Even though I have the "stuff" I think I will still join the website so I can get the recipes and be accountable. I am not sure why I've been putting it off, but I think it's time. So here goes! Wish me luck:)

Mad Dash Wednesday

Today my first Christmas present is supposed to be arriving. Now I am not one who usually cares about these new techy gadgets, but #1 Hubby has been talking about this for some time now. I continued to say "oh that's not necessary, it's a waste of money, why do we need all that?" and being my frugal self. However, he continued talking about it and all the cool features...and then a lot of my FB friends started discussing it. They were all raving about it! So, as I am not usually one to follow the crowd, began to get curious about it. I started thinking "Hmm maybe that would be neat to have. Any nice to easily access things I might not otherwise have time to find. Or if I get lost or need directions they are at the tip of my finger. And e-mailing and blog reading would be nice hanging on the couch." Then so called #1 Hubby says "They have an app. for weight loss and things of that nature." Well this got me thinking...wow he's actually trying to help me on my journey being supportive in his own matter (b/c up to this point he is not thrilled about my healthier choices of cooking nor is he liking the fact that I am taking an hour or more to myself each night to go to the gym or for a run). He has continually said "You're fine. I like the way you are. It isn't necessary." While that's sweet and all I know it's b/c he doesn't want me to keep asking him to go for walks or hit the gym w/ more and he is quite a needy guy and doesn't like for me to be gone at night. Anyway, aside from all that I thought "wow how helpful is he?" Then my next thought was, "Crap he's finally decided I do need to lose weight." Well, either way he got me excited about this crazy gadget. And well today it's supposed to arrive!


I also know that as soon as it gets here I will be taking some time to figure it all out and all of it's free down loadable apps. So, I'm in a mad dash to get everything done around here. Dishes, never ending loads of laundry, sweeping, vacuuming, running a daycare (diapers, food, playtime, learning time), and all of the other necessary things that I seem to be behind on constantly.

But none the less I'm super excited about my new phone!

So dinner is about to go in the crock pot, music is coming on for the kids to dance, and I'm about to make this house look sparkly fresh (well as much as I can with 5 kids and 5 daycare kids).

The dreaded week 2

On the Biggest Loser they always speak of the "dreaded week two". Well, I guess you could consider this last week my week 2. My workouts were great...my eating was well BAD! I tried the whole plan thing. Planned meals, snacks, drinks etc. Well, I 'd have that no problem, but I found myself mindless eating a lot of junk. Enough junk that instead of losing anything this week I gained back a pound. BLAH!!!

I knew this morning that I didn't want to get on the scale. But I was hoping because of the awesome workouts I was doing maybe it would at least keep me at the same weight. HA was I wrong. But you would think that would have kicked my butt in gear this morning to make me stick to my plan...but I haven't. I am craving not so healthy carbs today and I seem to be giving in more than not.

I'm thinking I may have to join Weight Watchers after Christmas and make myself more accountable. I can't figure out why I know it's bad for me but I pick it up and put it in my mouth anyway...even when I'm not hungry. I've even caught myself talking myself out of workouts. It's rainy and cold and I don't want to run in this weather. A cup of hot chocolate and a movie snuggled up on the couch sounds so much better.

I need help...motivation...something that is going to make me stick to the plan. Ugh I get so discouraged, but not enough to make myself do what is necessary.

But tomorrow is another day, another day to do the right thing, write everything down and work extra hard.

The good news....3 more days of work and I'm off for two weeks.

Caught you red handed!

A few things I learned this week (besides the fact that you can't eat 2 slices of fully loaded pepperoni w/ extra cheese pizza and several garlic Parmesan bread sticks and uh Cheeseburger Bobby's fully loaded cheeseburger and onion rings and maybe a few fries from the kids plates and still expect to lose weight....but you can enjoy them and workout twice as much and maintain your weight and enjoy the food. I will admit I will never be able to give up certain foods. Fast food and 5 kids equals at least one easy night a week or every other week. I did good last week and ate a salad when we headed out to dinner....but this week I was hankering big time for a cheeseburger...so I had one and ran for an extra workout. Well then hubby was home one day and pizza sounded so glorious...so we had that too...and well I needed another extra workout. So I took 3 Zumba classes, 2 days of 45 min. elliptical and weights for arms, and got in one run. I weighed myself this morning which I swore I wasn't going to do but oh well...but I was a little surprised that after crappy eating I was able to at least keep off the weight I'd already lost. Now I know there are better choices I should be making, but I also know that if I constantly tell myself I can't have it I will eat twice as much when I do finally give in to a craving. I figure if I eat as healthy as I can 90% of the time I can splurge on something not so healthy 10% and be in good shape...To be determined!
But another important lesson I learned this week -
- Never underestimate the sneaky middle child!

This sweet middle boy hatched a plan this week to sneak and look at Christmas presents. Well I NEVER! I couldn't even believe my sweet, innocent, wonderful, glorious, never get in trouble, super cute children would ever do such a thing especially this quite middle boy. I came up the stairs to see him staring at me w/ one of those dear in the headlight looks. He says "Uh Um...Uh Um...T-man is looking for you." Realizing at this time son #1 was in my room I knew immediately that he was in closet and sneaking a peak. Well, two days later the truth finally came out that Bubby had actually already been in there 3 times and was reporting back to T-man. And well, T-man got curious and decided he should check it out for himself to see if Bubby was right.
That will teach us to shop early and not put stuff in the attic. I figured this year since I work from home there was no chance they would ever look for fear I would catch them. Ha! I was wrong. But a little fear has been instilled and hopefully they won't sneak to look at the rest.
Oh well you live and you learn.

"Life...It's all about expression...you only live once and you're not coming back...so express yourself"

Such good words to live by...I just wish I could stay on track and believe that everyday. Sometimes life gets the best of me and I forget it's not the end of the world when things aren't going my way. I need to get better about picking myself up and dusting myself off and get going again. One of my favorite shows is The Biggest Loser. I just love Jillian...I think she'd kick my butt in real life...but I love her. One of my favorite things she always says is "Life isn't going to happen unless you make it happen." How true it that?

So this week I've been in deep thought with myself. I don't know if any of you other moms out there have a life inside your head that doesn't exactly match your real life...but somedays I like the one that goes on in my head more than my real one.

In my head I see myself waking up a little early to do some yoga and then a run in a super cute outfit, dressing super chic' and heading off to work in heals and cup of coffee in hand, a nice afternoon run, and a hot cup of tea and good book and snuggled up in bed before falling into a full nights sleep of 8 hours. Ahahahaha...where in the world could I get an idea like that?

But real life is hitting the snooze button a few too many times, thinking of the millions of things that have to get done in the first hour of waking, throwing on sweats b/c the baby spit up is easier to clean off of, and heels? ha that would be a sight while chasing kids all day, cleaning poop, spilled messes, scrubbing toilets, and cooking dinner...
Don't get me wrong...I love my life. My husband has a great job and loves being a dad, my kids are healthy and smart and well behaved, and things are good most of the time. Although it is probably good that I have another life in my head or I might actually go crazy! But it doesn't mean that I don't always want more mommy time...well I guess I have a lot of mommy time...it's Danielle time I'm looking for. A spa day, coffee shop w/ a friend, shopping alone...but at least I do get my time at the gym and I'm so glad I'm making that a priority and learning to go even when the family is not happy about it. I do deserve at least an hour to my self everyday.

So what other goals am I setting to "express" myself...

Well I'd like to go back to school, find another career path, and find something that I enjoy getting up for each day and can make mroe money at. That path is yet to be determined, but I know it's out there.

Success... In More Ways Than One

Good Morning...and what a glorious morning it is! I weighed in this morning at 146.5...I never thought I'd announce my weight to people I know let alone strangers...but if I'm on this journey and looking for advice and wanting to share my ups and downs of weight loss I think it will help me be more accountable to myself to be completely honest. Anyway, 9 days ago I weighed in at 153 when I returned from vacation. So that's 6.5 pounds! Now I know some of it is water weight, bloating women issues, and not eating extremely healthy for a whole week before starting...but it's weight loss and I'm super excited at that.

A year ago, after the 5th baby, I weighed 140 lbs. before leaving for our annual beach house Thanksgiving trip. When I returned I was 145...and since then ( a whole year ago) I have not seen 140. I continued to exercise on and off, but ate out a lot and figured "well this 150 is the new me and this is what is my new normal." I figured that was the number I could maintain w/o really having to be restrictive or work hard to stay at it. So for the last year I have fluctuated between 145 and 150...mostly staying pretty close to 150.

After a lot of soul searching, blog reading, and a few doctors appt. where the scale was more than I liked...I realized 150 is not where I want to be. This isn't the new me! I don't like the pictures I see of myself, the clothing size I've gone up to, and the lack of energy I really have. I don't want to be this girl any more.

I want the old Danielle back. The one that enjoyed being active w/ the kids chasing them all the time, long glorious walks in the fresh air, Zumba classes that keep me pumped for the rest of the night, and wanting my husband to introduce me to people...and for him to be proud that he has a wife that looks good after 5 kids. Now I will say he constantly tells me I look good, he likes the way I am, but inside I know this is a small gift to him too!

So this morning when I saw 146.5 I felt like I am more than ready for these changes. I can't wait for the say I can look back and say "I did it" this is the new me! My ultimate goal is 125-130 because I think once I get there that is the number I can maintain. I know the weight loss will slow down and I'll have to push harder...but I'm off to a great start and most importantly I feel great!

Another success to celebrate...this super cute boy is finally interested in letters! All of the sudden this morning he's picking out the letters of his name, wanting to try to write words without tracing them, and he is doing awesome at picking out numbers and counting. By Kindergarten next fall he should be so ready!

And that makes me one proud mama today...Success all around!

Giving myself a pat on the back

This is the first weekend I made it through without falling off the wagon. I even managed to lost half a pound! Most weekends I have been gaining back anything I lost and then maybe a pound or 2...so the next week fluctuates back down through the week and all is lost on the weekend...but not this weekend. I am super PROUD of myself and am so motivated. I knew I just needed that boost to keep me going in stead of the steady stream I've had for the past few months of yo-yoing.

Tomorrow is weigh in day...I've been doing it on Fridays and getting so excited about the weeks loss that I think that's why I have blown off the weekends. So I decided to change my weigh in day to Tuesdays. I did measurements this morning and have lost a couple of inches which is super excited as well. I've made a deal with myself that is I'm not steadily losing the weight...at least 10 pounds by then end of December...then I am going back on Weight Watchers. I want to see if I can do it by eating lots of raw and healthy fruits and veggies...along w/ lean meats w/o actually counting points and calories. But if by Dec. 31st I'm not down 10 pounds then I'll put myself back on the plan.

My goal is 25 lbs. by then end of February. This is absolutely doable!
Both the Princess and T-Man rain w/ me last night. I was so proud of them. If I can keep them going w/ me 3 days a week we might sign up for a 5K in the Spring.

A reward system...works for the kids why not me!

I'm super excited to have made it through the first Friday night in ages w/o eating out! Go Me! I am also super excited that instead of ordering our Friday night pizza I took the boys to the Y instead. My husband closed Friday night and I knew that he was going to be closing Saturday to...in other words absolutely no help on the home front. So I made sandwiches for the boys, a Green Monster, and packed them up and headed for a great hour and a half by myself to get the weekend started. I did a 30 minute eliptical (in intervals) and weight training the legs and arms in between. I also walked w/ weights just to continue to clear my head and muster up the energy to go the weekend alone.

I made some yummy egg white omelets w/ spinach when we returned and a nice cup of tea. I had the boys help me get the house cleaned up (as much as I can w/ 5 kids who think the whole place is their domain) and #1 Princess was hanging w/ her friends at the basketball games.

When I woke up I was starving! I made some oatmeal w/ Smat Balance P'nut Butter, 1/2a banana, and cinnamon and took the little boys w/ me back to the Y for some Zumba. Nothing like and awesome Zumba class to keep me motivated. Instead of out typical drive thru routine for weekend lunch I headed to Publix to get more fruits, veggies, and shrimp (so we could have dinner too). Got home and made egg omelets for Princess and I (so good egg whites, spinach, canadian bacon, and half a Babybel cheese). I grabbed a Bolthouse Smoothie drink thing as Publix...BLECK!!! Horrible green juice tasted icky...but the baby liked it and Princess put some in her smoothis. I think I'll stick to my homemade Green Monsters.

I've already got dinner planned and am so excited. A little planning really goes a long way. The plan for the rest of the day...NAP and relax. I had such an awesome week of workouts and healthy eating I am going to reward myslef w/ some rest (especially when it iwll be a long night w/ no daddy).

I have to pat myself on the back as I am so excited to not ruin my entire week by eating crap on the weekend. Planning, planning, planning!

And I'm coming up w/ a reward system for myself...I'm thinking 10 lbs. lost a new workout outfit, 15 lbs. take myself to the spa or nails or something, 20 lbs and hopefully 25 lbs (will def. need new clothes by then right?... need to be something good. I'm still thinking!

Run Mommy Run

Last night I ran and ran and ran...I felt like I was almost escaping this madness:) My plan was to start the Couch to 5K I found on another blog yesterday. It requires 3 days a week for about 30 min. to begin. (I'll link as soon as I find it again.) So, after a yummy Green Monster (I added spinach, vanilla almond milk, blueberries, a frozen banana, flax seed and protein powder and a little stevia) I headed w/ my handy dandy i-pod and hit the pavement. I dodged a few rain drops, but was so proud of myself for doing all 3 miles! I'd ran a min. and walked a min...and continues this through the 3 miles w/ a few sprints every now and then. It was great! I felt so proud of myself.

I got home and grabbed a Larabar and hopped in the tub after some really good stretching. I sipped some Yogi Detox Tea and layed on the couch watching TV w/ the hubby for the rest of the night. Of course this morning I woke up to trash needing to go out, the Elf on the Shelf needing to be moved, and a dirty kitchen. But it was worth the escape.

I have also been playing around a little today w/ my free trial download from Photoshop Lightroom. And when I have an extra $300 laying around I'm going to purchase it! I love it!

A little preview -

On another note...the voices in my head are starting to go crazy...but that's a whole nother post:)

Today I'm going to be GREAT!

Every morning when my kids head out to the bus I kiss them goodbye and say "Be GREAT today!" Every night at dinner we discuss what they did to be great. I usually get a variety of answers from helped my teacher stack the chairs, picked up paper off the floor, showed a younger student where something was etc. I love to hear of the ways my kids are going out of their way to help someone else and be the best they can be. I've noticed a difference in attitude at home since I started doing this. My oldest two seem to butt heads the most in the family. But this morning I heard my 10 yr. old say to my 13 yr. old "Jenna have a good day. Love you". I almost cried. I have also noticed a little more "fun" rough play and wrestling and having more laughing sessions between them. The two oldest boys share a room and I hear them at night talking. I hear them telling each other secrets and I feel so proud that they have that bond between each other.

Anyway, the point is I'm always telling my kids to be GREAT and I am the type of person who often sees the glass 1/2 empty. I am now questioning myself on what I'm doing to be GREAT. How can I start seeing the glass 1/2 full? What am I doing to take care of me and not everyone else all the time?

Well, this weight loss journey is for me. Unfortunately I have a needy husband and children....of course I realize I have caused this. They don't seem to be able to get along w/o my constant guidance. However, later I have put my foot down when it comes to something I am wanting. I use to not go to the gym if they asked me not to or if I was given a guilt trip. I'd skip my nightly walks, even though they helped me clear my head, to make sure all homework was done, the kitchen cleaned, baths were done, and all were read to and tucked in. Well last night after dinner I gave the kids their jobs and let them know what I expected when I returned form my walk. Things weren't done exactly as I'd hope...but I got in a 45 min. walk with the baby and then took the dog for a 20 min. run. When I returned it was lights out whether things were done or not. I took myself upstairs, lit candles and while my bubble bath was running I did 15 min. of Yoga w/ the candles and quite music. WOW how refreshed I felt when I was done. I just let the rest go! And I felt so free!

This morning I woke up and asked myself what I was going to do to be GREAT today and I've made a plan of how I'm going to take care of myself. Eating fresh fruits and veggies all day, cut out the processed foods, and what days and times I can get to the gym or get my runs in. I've made a calendar and can't wait to start crossing off the days to look back and see all that I've accomplished.

I feel so good and GREAT today.

What are you going to do to be GREAT?

All right confession time...

I am in a crazy depression of a week. Weight loss is none...I have probably gained back everything I lost last week but I refuse to get on the scale b/c I'm so disappointed in myself. I have managed to take a Zumba class and have gone on several walks...but no weight training this week and no 30 Day Shred.

My eating is...well...horrible. After my fabulous dinner out Saturday for my birthday I have been on a horrible carb (not healthy ones) craving binge. Anything fast food sounds so delicious! I am proud I have still not had any Diet Coke...but I'm sure that doesn't make up for the fries and burger I had last night. I have been throwing in lots of vegetables and Green Monsters. But I have also had a lot of "JUNK".

I have got to break this cycle of losing all week and then gaining on the weekend. It is so hard to break. I can find on excuse after another for why this is...but when will enough be enough and I stop doing this to myself?

The cold weather and the rain have not helped my mood one bit! I am really hating being stuck in the house all day w/ 8 kids and some days I think I'm really going to lose my mind. Winter scares me! I really don't like being couped up inside w/ no adult contact and crying active children.

These things really make me start thinking about what I really want. Some days I think going back to work would be a better choice for our family because getting out of the house and being with adults might just help my moods. But then I think of all the moments I will miss with my Monkey. He will only be this little for so much longer. I really do like being my own boss. I do as I please during the day, but the daycare kids are here for 10 hours with no way to get out for a few minutes. If I go back to teaching my hours will be a little better and there will be some sort of adult contact through out the day. However, then I am under a different amount of stress and pressure. I just don't know what to do.

The kids and I leave for the beach in 2 1/2 days. Ia m really hoping this time away will help me clear my head and really figure out what to do. I want to be happy! I want to lose the weight, be happy in my career, and be a better wife and mother. Somehow I need to figure all this out...and fast before heavy medication is required.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

This cute boy...

...Took me on my birthday date this weekend. I think it's been years since we went to the movies and dinner in the same night all by ourselves. WOW! And the kids all spent the night out too...so we even slept peacefully with no interruptions during the night. No one to tell us they had to go to the bathroom or had a bad dream. And no baby screaming at 3:00 A.M. because his diaper was wet or his teeth hurt. No one needing a 4:00 A.M breathing treatment...It's been years too that I could sleep and not worry at every noise.
But it was bitter sweet at the same time. I really missed tucking them in, reading bedtime stories, and rubbing backs. And breakfast wasn't much fun all by myself as this cute boy could sleep all day. My body's alarm clock woke me up at 5:00...I managed to go back to sleep until 7:00 at least.

Then the phone rang....and my 4 year old was running a temp. of 103.8. Oh crap...wake up back to reality. I finished my coffee and headed out the door as fast as I could. I gave him Motrin as soon as I got him and within an hour it was down to 100. He played lots of Wii today and then took a 5 hour nap...and woke up as happy as could be. The fever never appeared again. Hmmm I'm really hoping it stays that way and maybe we can sleep again tonight.

Anyway, a night out w/o kids just my hot husband and I...wow that was so nice. Best birthday gift ever!

Screaming Abs!

Hello abs I forgot were there...stop screaming already! Oh how nice it is though to be reminded that they are under there. What an awesome week!

Morning weigh in revealed 3 pounds down....wooo hooo!

Highs for the week - I made it to Zumba 3 times, 2 run/walks, and 3 days of 30 Day Shred. Today I pushed myself to do level 2 and that's is when the abs decided to give it a scream along with my thighs...holy moly.

Lows for the week - I'm still craving Cheeseburger Bobby's. Have been for three days now. I'm super proud that I haven't given in, but the weekend is here and I am scared I'm going to undo all of this week's hard work. And I mean hard work!

On a positive note - It's my birthday weekend and hubby and I are actually going on a date. I'm really excited to have some much needed alone time w/ him, but again scared at undoing all of this week's hard work. Did I mention how hard this week was?

I made another Green Monster this morning...even better than the first. This time I added chocolate protein, spinach, skim milk, organic strawberries and a few vegan dark choc. chips. I'm going to get some more almond milk, energy powders, and see what else I can find interest in this weekend at Trader Joe's.

So here's looking at you week...and ready to start the weekend. Wish me luck!

Wordless Wednesday...Yet it is Thursday

Oh how I love a challenge!

I'm super excited about a 30 Day Ab Challenge that OhSheGlows is sponsoring. I am going to take before, middle, and after pictures and having to send them to someone and report my measurements is sure to get me moving.

This morning I made my first Green Monster - I added 3 cups spinach, 1 cup skim milk, tbls. organic peanut butter, banana, a scoop of vanilla protein powder, and ice...I surely thought I was crazy that I was about to consume this green concoction. But oh my it was deliciouso! (



This week is going awesome so far...I've done Zumba 3 times, 2 sessions of 30 Day Shred, and last night I did the elliptical for 10 min increments and weight machines in between for a total of 40 min. on the elliptical and 25 minutes of weights.

Tonight I was thinking of heading to a boot camp class...but I've pulled a muscle in my neck and it's difficult turning my head. So I may have to opt for some walking during soccer practice. But nothing will stop me....something will be done today and I'm going to give all these plank exercises a try.

As far as food goes - This morning was scrambled eggs w/ spinach and Canadian Bacon along w/ my Green Monster for snack.
And I'm already excited about lunch...shrimp, sauteed peppers and onions, squash and zucchini. Yum!

Who knew eating healthy could taste so good! Right now I don't even miss all the processed food. Oh and it's been a week of no Diet Coke! Groovy!

Phew...please let this be it for a minute...

Holy Macaroni - For the last two weeks we have had some crazy sick germs invading our home. It started w/ a fever virus that lasted up to 6 days and hit 3 kiddos. No other symptoms...just high fever. Of course I figured it was H1N1, but they all tested negative. Then we moved on to a little bronchitis in 2 little boys, I got a sinus infection and in the same night came down with a stomach virus which then spread to 3 of the kiddos. And just when I thought my hands we going to fall off from so much Lysol and Cloroxing....the dreaded H1N1 actually hit!

So, needless to say, not much exercising was going on except perfecting my cleaning skills. Which I figured was alright because I wasn't eating much and what I did eat was coming back out. But then I decided it would be okay to eat a little fast food here, or a brownie there, or try a "fun snack size" candy from the kids Halloween bags...bad bad bad! It started me back on my cravings. I mean I can't believe I can get it all out of my system, not even crave a Diet Coke, and with one bite it all changes back.

The good news is I am back on my workout schedule - Zumba 3 days a week, Jillian Michaels The Shred 3 days a week, walking as much as I can, and I'm trying really hard to get Yoga in at least 20 min. a day. It sounds like a lot, but these sessions are very much needed and they really do make me a happier wife and mommy. I don't get much time to myself at all, so as soon as my work day is done and dinner is cooked I'm off to the gym or out for a walk. Mommy's need time too (I keep telling myself this when I am caught up in the homework, whining, and blah blah blah of daily life). The kids don't always want to go to the Y and I'd never get a workout in if they all walked with me...so I have been bringing the two little boys and the "big" kids usually stay with dad or big sister.

Now that baseball and soccer are finished for the season it's time to step my workouts up. My favorite instructor at the Y only teaches Zumba and Yoga during the day when I can't get there...but I just found out she is teaching a night time Boot Camp so I am going to try to get that in one day a week. The other instructors are good and keep me going, but this one in particular really kicks my butt. I keep telling my husband if I didn't have to have a job during the day I'd be one skinny wife because I would take all of her classes she that awesome.

Anyway, stepping it up and hoping the germs stay away for a while.

Trying to pretend I'm not sick...

It's caught up with me...the sickness around here. One minute I'm freezing, the next I'm sweating...I have no fever but so much pressuse. I ache down to my feet. You know how your body feels heavy with all of this mucus plugging it up? Well I feel like there is mucus down to my feet. Tomorrow is supposed to be weigh in day, but I defintely feel like I have a few extra pounds of mucus weighing me down.

I've kept my eatting in control for the most part. I had a small mishap yesterday. I was starving after my small bean salad.
Which I suppose was not filling enough b/c I threw in a Tombstone Pizza. I am proud though that I only ate a serving size instead of half the pizza. And then towards the afternoon it got crazy hectic and I stressed and hit the Halloween Candy. Big slap on the hand b/c after 2 Butterfingers and 2 Baby Ruth I realized it wasn't what I was even wanting. I hate days like that!

But for dinner I really cut down knowing I had a few boo boo's in the middle of the day. I sauteed some peppers and spinach and made an omelet w/ 1 egg and 2 egg whites. Pretty good...but starving again by bedtime. So I made hot tea and reminded myself I was over calories for the day and I probably wasn't hungry anyway. Sometimes when I'm sick my stomach feels hungry...but then I can't taste it anyway so I don't know why.

I got a short walk in at Princessess soccer practice. I would have loved to walk the whole time, but Monkey thought the playground was so much more excited than a stroller ride. But at least I did chase him around for more than 30 min.

Today, eating has been right on.
Breakfast - 1 egg and 2 egg whites, spinach, and one piece WW toast

Snack - apple w/ organic peanut butter (1 tbls.)

Lunch - Toasted WW PB & J (2 tsp. of each)
and a handful of baby carrots and half an orange

Snack - Cheerios:) Just enough sugar to satisfy my craving

I've had a ton of water and today is day 4 of no Diet Coke...
Dinner will be grilled chicken breast over a huge bed of spinach and tons of chopped veggies w/ a small amount of Balsamic. I'd love to make it to Zumba, but I'm thinking this body is not going to cooperate:(

Hope all is well w/ everyone out in the blog world! Tomorrow is week 1 weigh in...stay tuned!

Take a minute

And please pray for baby Stellan-

Today is Stellan's birthday and this precious baby is once again back in the PICU. Head over to MckMama to read about his progress...

But please take a minute to pray for this sweet one year old.

Just keep swimming, just keep swimming...

Many times this week I have felt like running away. Illness is at it's best around here. It all started about two weeks ago when my "Bubby" started running a fever. This lovely fever lasted 6 days with two trips to urgent care. All tests continued to be negative, but the dr. put him on a Z-Pack and sent us on our way. Finally the fever and headache went away...but only to be met w/ "T-Man" and "Tooker" getting it next. A trip to urgent care and a Z-pack in hand and they were quickly on the mend too. Then last night Little Monkey began vomiting around 10:00 as I was crawling in bed after being sick myself all day. Here I was taking care of a baby who couldn't stop throwing up all over me (b/c he would let me put him down). I kept turning my head b/c I could only breath through my mouth b/c my nose was so stuffed up and my body felt so weak from busting my booty at the gym but also from whatever crazy cold thing I have going on.

Thankfully around mid-night we were able to get some sleep. But of course every time he made a noise or coughed I'd jump up. This morning has been okay except now he has runny diapers w/ a lovely diaper rash. He has kept down toast and Gatorade since waking at 6:00.

I am now keeping fingers crossed it doesn't spread to everyone else considering all their little immune systems are running low. And the added fact that I have had several daycare kids sick too...one with Strep, one w/ double ear infections, and one w/ the crazy fever thing my boys had.

I just keep praying and knowing it can't last forever. But boy is it exhausting!

All of this causes me to want to eat...even though I can't taste anything and am still stuffed up it's hard to breath. I am not letting the stress win though. I am in control of myself! I can do this...this is one of the easier things I am going through so I can do this!

I'm just looking at pictures of these precious babies and telling myself to "Just Keep Swimming..."

Nothings stopping me now...

Last night I headed to the gym as soon as dinner was cleaned up (Shrimp Scampi on top of a mound of squash and zucchini but w/ pasta for dad and the kids). I missed my Zumba class because I wanted to make sure everything was squared away before I left. Homework done, kitchen clean, and everything else that I didn't want to leave up to my husband. No offense honey, but some things just don't get taken care of. The second I walk out the door everyone around here forgets I'm coming home I guess. Shoes and socks are all over, toys, various snacks and their trash, cups... you get the picture. Homework forgets to get done, things don't get signed, laundry doesn't make it to the correct places...Crazy things go on when I'm not home. But I knew I didn't want to come home after a hard workout and have all of it to do.

Anyway, I did the Arc Trainer for 30 min. at interval speeds burning around 250 cals. I did a few weight machines and then got the hand weights for my squats and walking routine. I was there for about an hour and was super excited to see I burned around 500 to 550 calories. I came home and enjoyed a small protein smoothie and a lot of water.

The kids carved the pumpkin with daddy while I was gone. I was a little sad I missed out, but my happiness and energy were overflowing and made bedtime routine so much more relaxing and enjoyable. Enjoyable? Did I say that about bedtime routine? It was nice because the kids were already bathed when I got home and all I had to do was brush teeth, read a story, and rub some backs. Even got to take my own soak in the tub with no interruptions!

Then I made myself some hot green tea b/c I felt the congestion coming on and curled up on the couch to watch football w/ hubby. After about 15 minutes I fell fast asleep. My body was worn out so I headed up to bed at 9:30! Holy Cow that hasn't happened in years. Unfortunately I woke 3 times due to runny dripping nose and the fact that I had to go the bathroom after the gallons of water I'm drinking now.

And guess what? Best thing that happened the whole day...I didn't have any Diet Coke! I'm still drinking my coffee for the need of morning caffeine but I've switched from sugar to Stevia...and I still use fat free vanilla coffee mate but I am now measuring instead of pouring. I am so excited about these little changes and I know soon I will be benefiting from all of it!

So I will be updating about other things on my blog too....but right now I think if I use this a lot for my weight loss I will stick with it this time b/c I know there are at least a few people reading and it will make me more accountable. Anyone that wants to join in my quest to tackle their weight issue would be greatly welcome:) I always love to hear about others success and what they are doing to stay motivated and get this weight off once and for all.

Plan for today - 1600 calories or less, 30 minutes of cardio, and some yoga time! Oh and I thought I'd add a picture I can use to compare to in a few months when I reach my goal. On Fridays I will post weigh ins and measurements and talk about strengths and weaknesses from the week.

I'd love for you to join me! And let's make each other accountable!

My Ah Ha moment...or was it really "HOLY CRAP!"

UPDATE:
Today's Lunch was HEAVENLY! Romaine lettuce wraps w/ shrimp, peppers, onions, cucumbers and tomotoes sauteed in EVOO and squeeze of lemon w/ Italian Grinders and a little sea salt:) Less than 300 cals. for 3 wraps and totally filling.


I've been reading Self magazine for years. I take a few tips here and there, try out a new workout or two, and love reading the inspirational stories. But truth be told they they end of in a pile after a quick read and I don't usually think anything else about them. I do not stick with it is my problem. For the last year (after baby number 5) my weight has fluctuated all over the place. Down 30 lbs. back up 10...when will the yo-yo stop? Part of my problem is I love to work out, but I also love to eat. Ice cream, pizza, burgers...you know the deal. The problem is no matter how much I work out those foods keep calling my name and seem to take up shop on various parts of my body. Well today my friends it comes to an end. The time to get healthy and stay that way begins today!

This weekend as I was reading Self I came across several blogs about people losing weight. Many of these sites are women who have lost over 100 lbs...some are 20 -40 lbs...but if people can lose 100lbs. I can definitely get my life back together and lose 25 right? Right!

I hear from so many people all the time "You look great for having 5 kids." Well truth be told I want to look great because I look great, work hard, and eat right...w/o the added "for having 5 kids."

Now for my "Holy Crap" moment - Well after doing measurements and weighing in this weekend I learned that I am actually in the overweight category. What? I've never really viewed myself as "overweight"...I need to tone up and lose a pounds of baby weight yes...but really seeing the words "overweight" really struck a cord. I want to not only look good, but more importantly be healthy! After all I do have 5 kids. I am their example, the person they need most to be healthy, and to show the the way of how they will be healthy.

Being a mom comes with a few down falls and I've learned time to myself is extremely hard to come by. But I have to make time b/c it only makes me a better mother and wife. So this is for me. Something I need, and something I actually enjoy.

This morning I had planned to get up at 5:15 to get my workout started....well stuffy nose and cough kept me from that plan. So I've already called hubby and let him know I will be leaving for the gym as soon as work is over and will be taking Zumba which I totally love. My other goal is to get 30 minutes of yoga in today during nap to re energize my mind and loosen me up:) I did Zumba on Saturday and walked for an hour yesterday so I've started the week off right.

This morning I ate my yummy breakfast cookie (recipe found over at Fitnessista.com at 270 cals.) and had a cup of coffee with Stevia.
I'm now enjoying my morning snack smoothie - 1/2 cup Low-Fat Vanilla yogurt, 1/2 cup frozen berries, 1/2 banana, whey protein powder, and ice (a little water added for easier drink ability) total of 145 cals.

And I've already had 4 glasses of water. Lunch time already in the works - Shrimp on romaine lettuce wraps w/ peppers and onions...Can't wait!

I'm also going to be adding a few of my favorite weight loss blogs to the right if you are interested.

Wish me luck! Today is the beginning of my new life:)

It all sounded good on paper...

Lately I have seen many MASH/MATH papers laying around, crumpled in book bags, folded in pockets...you know the ones that told us our "life story" when we were young. It has brought up many memories of which boys I was going to marry (yes I said boys w/ an S...there was always about 3-5 I had a huge crush on...who knew I would actually marry and divorce and marry again), where we were going to live, how many kids we would have, what I would be etc. etc.

Funny thing is it all looked so good on paper...You'll marry (...of course it was always the same 3-5 that I put down and now I don't even know them at all)...you'll have 3 babies, live in California, be a lawyer. If I had only known.

Never in my wildest dreams did I think I'd have 5 children and continue to want more. I always thought 3 was a good number. California? No way not even in my dreams...well maybe if we could live on the ocean, but I prefer the East Coast. A lawyer...well I have settled many debates/disputes around here so maybe sorta kinda...And thinking back to those boys...I have 4 boys and they are gross, dirty, do weird things that are unimaginable to people w/o children...surely "those" boys of the past were doing those weird things too, not taking showers when their mothers told them too, picking their noses when no one was looking, making fart noises...oh wait they did that in class anyway and everyone thought they were hilarious. Why did I have huge crushes on them?

And living in a "shack". Thank goodness that part never came true. Nor will a "mansion" but we live modestly and I don't mind it at all. I'm pretty much a simple kind of girl and I like it that way. Thank goodness my husband does too...well I'm sure he'd like to see me "dress-up" a little more than my jeans and t-shirts but we'll save that for another post.

The things those papers never told us was that the boy you would marry had a say so in your life too. WHAT? I had my kids names picked out for years. I'd doodle their names on paper in my notebooks, decorated their rooms, designed my house, etc. etc. Needless to say neither of my husbands liked the names I'd doodled for years and each had a say so in what our children were eventually named. It actually brought up much debating and arguing. And our house...looks nothing like I'd drawn for years and decorated. Of course those papers never told us how much money we'd make or how much the kids, house, husband would cost.

And thank goodness those papers never told us what you would go through to get that husband, child, house b/c I don't know that we would have even been interested after all that. Especially the affects of the babies and the body afterward. Yeah I never read that on any MASH paper. Thankfully we can recover and move on from a divorce or marriage issue but going through it seems like the world might actually end. Nope not on any of those MASH papers.

And I for one am thankful I didn't know what life would truly bring because now I can appreciate being pregnant with each child, giving birth (yeah that would have totally turned me off when I was a child) and even the struggles of marriage knowing what it has brought us today. Raising a 13 year old and 1 year old and all the in between at the same time is something quite exciting. And living with a man (which I never experienced w/ no dad and being an only child) is something exciting in itself. I learn something new everyday whether good or bad I'm glad I didn't know beforehand.

Not Me Monday

Do you ever find yourself answering the door with a towel on your head, still wearing your pajamas in the afternoon, or of all unsightly things not wearing a bra? How about the dishes that are over piling in the sink and the laundry spilling out of the laundry room? Well, have no fear that's what Not Me Mondays are for. A free for all of confessions of sorts...things you'd Never do as a Mom!

Brought to you by McMama over at My Charming Kids.

Well, I for one have NEVER allowed my oldest child to dress my youngest son like a girl. This has never happened before and I am appalled by you thinking that he actually has a clippy in his hair.


And they most certainly didn't do it to the next to youngest brother. I would NEVER allow this...No Way Not Me!



I love to bake and make goodies for the family all the time. But I would Never think of letting the two smallest boys frost and decorate their own cupcake. This could lead to eating spoonfuls of frosting. I would most certainly Not encourage this activity as it would lead to a sugar high and cavities for goodness sake.



And I Never, No Way Not Me, ever let my children climb on the table and then take pictures. My children always have their feet firmly planted on the ground!

Show Us Your Life Dinner Recipes...

I'm super excited about this week's blog hop from Kelly. It's Show Us Your Life dinner recipes. I love to cook and try new things for the family. So I am excited to share my own and get to see what other people are making.

This chicken dish is an all time favorite in my house. Everyone eats it and there are no complaints on this night. I usually double this recipe for our family, but this version is for a family of four.

Swiss Chicken

1 lb. chicken breast
1 (16 ounce)bag baby corn blend (corn, broccoli, baby cob corn, carrots)
3 tbls. butter
4 slice swiss cheese
1 box long grain/wild rice
1 1/2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
2 tbls flour
1 tbls McCormicks Grinder Italian seasoning
1 tsp seasoned asalt
large zip-loc bag
1/4 cup white wine

Chicken-

Preheat large saute pan 2-3 min. Place flour and seasoned salt in the bag, add chicken and shake. Put butter in the pan and add chicken and left over flour from the bag to the pan. Brown on both sides 2-3 min. Add wine, 1/2 cup broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil and then cook 6-8 min. When the liquid is about half gone add the swiss cheese to the top of each chiken breast (I usually slice the breasts in half so they are more like cutlets/or filets and will cook faster).

Rice-
Cook rice according to box diretions except add 1 cup broth and only 1/3 cup water, add vegetables and cook together.

Enjoy...so easy and super yummy.

At a Crossroads...

You know there are times in your life when things occur and you just can't decide which way to go. We are in great debate around here whether to put our house on the market so that we can take advantage of the market beginning to go back up, but also with the hopes we can find a bigger house at a more affordable price for us. The problem is we won't be able to sell our house for what we were hoping.

The real estate agent wants to list is $10,000 under what we need. Is this a sign that it's not our time? Or do we need to somehow figure out how to make this work because we could get a house right now that we would not be able to afford under a normal economy (whatever that is anymore). With our growing family we are in great need of more space. But is now the time?

I have my hopes high and thinking that all things work themselves out. We've done this before we can do it again. We will figure it out. I keep telling myself this...but of course a small, okay quite large, part of me is freaking out. As I sit typing I am staring at 9 empty boxes. Boxes for our "clutter" and personal items that won't be appreciated by another buyer. We of course would like to think our house will sell quick. The upgrades we've made, the small details we've added, and the feel of home...of course we are biased. I mean it is OUR house. If it didn't have that feel to us it would be no good. But considering the upgrades and money we've put into it I hate to settle for less than what we truly feel it could sell for. But we are not agents. And I know she knows much more about the market right now than we do and the price of the homes in our neighborhood. The foreclosures and short sales are really bringing us down.

But on the other hand we are not in a hurry. It's not like we have to get out of here. The kids will be staying in the same school system, my business is here, and it's only a 30 minute drive for my husband to go to work. It's really the fact of the space we are in need of and the price we can afford right now.

So I feel if we price it at what we are wanting I think we will have to wait longer...but in the end it only takes one person to come through and really want the house. Our agent just thinks if we ask less at the start it will sell quick. But that's not helping us. So we are at a crossroads of sort. I'll keep praying and hope the answers come.

In the meantime I suppose I should "declutter" and try to enjoy a little house hunting.

Dyson GiveAway....what a dream come true!

Super Excited about giveaways. But wow this could be the best one ever. Oh how our home could use a Dyson...of any kind. The suction power, removal of pet hair, and allergens...and the even have a specific allergy kit w/ special filters. If I don't win I cam going to convince hubby that this would really be one of our best investments. Considering 4 of the boys have asthma, we have a dog (that sheds all the time), and well we just have mess. Between the kids coming in from the sand box, the dirt in the yard, and baseball cleats from the ball field you can imagine the dirt that piles up. I sweep and vacuum everyday, but the floor never seems completely dirt free. It would be really nice to win this and would definitely be worth the investment.

Check out MyOrganizedChaos for more details on the giveaway.

Rain Rain Go Away...

It has rained or been too wet to go out here for quite sometime. My kiddos and daycare kiddos are tired of being couped up. The ground is too soggy to go out, but the temperature is awesome this morning. But despite all this we have had some amazing fun lately...
We've made Fruit Loop necklaces. We sorted out the colors into groups first and then had so much fun stringing them together. And when we finished we had a great snack.




We've had great fun with our magnets and making pictures as well as working on our letters.


Painting is always exciting.

Puzzles of course!


Lacing Cards are always good for fine motor...

And we made a city out of boxes...