Sarah's Blog

I turned 30 in Las Vegas!

2009-11-29T15:09:00.000-08:00

November is always one of my favorite months, and this year was no exception. The last week was a fun-filled, whirlwind, blast!

We started by celebrating my 30th birthday in style... Vegas style! Trey and I had never been, and I was so excited that we took the plunge and went on this trip. Mom, Lene and Michael all went with us, and we had such an amazing time. Saturday night (my actual birthday), we went to see the Beatles Love Cirque show. It was really good - not great, and by no means bad. We walked up and down the strip, in and out of all of the casinos, stopping at the Black Jack tables along the way. There was good food (and some not so good food - a gross asian noodle place, a mediocre birthday dinner), good (FREE) drinks, and mostly great company and tons of fun. Oh, and lots of gambling. Although none of us came back winners, we had a great time and I couldn't have asked for anything more. Well, maybe for Trey and Michael to not have gotten sinus infections while we there, and for a smoke free casino, but hey - beggars can't be choosers. I was so sad on Tuesday, when our trip was over. But I was super happy because it meant that it was almost time for Thanksgiving...

Wednesday was prep day, and Thursday was my most favorite holiday of the year. Thanksgiving has always been my favorite because we all cook together, hang out, eat great food, laugh and relax. And then April, mom, and I kick off our black friday extravaganza. This year was again no exception - Thanksgiving was super, we got some great family pics taken, food was awesome, and family and friends were all in tow. Again, I couldn't have asked for anything more... well except for me to not be sick. I seem to have come down with a cold or something like it as soon as we got home from Vegas. Go figure.

So now it's back to the real world. Bummer. I have a crazy, hectic 2 weeks of work ahead of me, and then I start my new job! I know you know nothing about this, but that will have to wait for another post.

Four Years Down, Many Many More to Go!

2009-11-18T07:01:00.000-08:00

Last weekend, Trey and I celebrated our 4th anniversary. It happen to also coincide with one our greatest friend's wedding (Mazel Tov to Stacy and Jason!) so we decided to make a weekend out of the wedding, stay at the hotel, and celebrate our anniversary. It was wonderful!

On Friday after work we went straight to the hotel and checked in, changed clothes, relaxed for a few minutes and then went to dinner. We've had a gift certificate to this great place in the Bishop Arts district that was given to me by my friend, Mark (like 2 years ago), and we'd never made it there to use it. So I thought, what a perfect time to go. I made a reservation and we went for a very nice, super yummy dinner.

I should back up to tell you about Trey's poison ivy. A few weeks ago, he and Michael went to Greene Family Camp with the temple brotherhood to do a mitzvah day clean up. They ended up clearing a ton of brush on the camp grounds. Well, a week later, Trey and Michael both have a red, itchy patch on their arms. I told Trey it looked like some for of poison ivy. He said - no, you don't get poison ivy that much after exposure. So on Friday Michael had an appt with the dermatologist, and I told Trey he should make an appt with the dr. He wanted to wait until after Michael went and just see what his dr. said first. (Note to readers: my response was - I'm pretty sure whatever it is, they will give a prescription for, and you are going to have to go to get it. And note the point that this is Friday, so we will then have the weekend to wait to see a dr. Sorry Treybaby - but you know when it comes to doctors and medical stuff, I am right!). So sure enough, Trey calls me around lunch time - Michael went to the dr., it's poison ivy, they gave him a shot. Now, being the wonderful wife that I am, I said - let me call Dr. Cook (Note to readers: Dr. Cook is our primary dr who I love. He always gets me in, his office is quick and good, and he is just generally great! It also helps that he loves me - and every time Trey or I go, he asks about how I am feeling and tells us how he talks about me all the time and uses my file for training with his interns and new staff.) So I called, and not only did they get Trey in for an appt that afternoon (amazing!), but he actually saw the doctor and not a nurse or NP. Dr. Cook gave Trey 2 prescriptions - one for prednisone which tends to wake you up, and one for something else that tends to make you drowsy. Both should be taken with food.

So now we are back at dinner... Trey takes his medicine, and we finish enjoying dinner. (By the way - Hattie's: delish!! Everything was awesome and it was great.) As we are leaving dinner, there are a ton of cute shops in the area so we wander into a few as we head back towards the car. (Again note: in one of the shops I find a ceramic pen holder / mug that says "my spreadsheets kick ass". I had to have it and it looks great on my desk.) By the time we get to the car, Trey is starting to feel a little sleepy, and starting to act a little off. So we head back to the hotel and I keep asking if he is okay. We get into the hotel, he sits in the chair for a minute, and BOOM - he is OUT! So I got ready for bed, and then woke him up and told him to get ready. Now, I had brought with us 2 wine glasses and a bottle of wine from home to celebrate with. The glasses were on the table with the wine chilling, and the next thing I know Trey is standing there looking towards them, and then just knocks his hand into both of them, shattering both into pieces. He was just so out of it from that medicine. Needless to say - I didn't want him to clean it up, so I took care of it while he got ready for bed and then he was out again. It was so funny!!

The next day was Stacy's wedding, so we slept in a little, and then I went to get my nails done while Trey went to watch the Texas game. We had a late lunch, and just hung out for the afternoon. The wedding was beautiful and it was great to spend time with all of our friends. It was the perfect cap to our anniversary weekend.

Here are few pics from the weekend...

In the hotel lobby before heading to Hattie's for our anniversary dinner.

Trey opening his surprise anniversary present - Bevo cuff links! He loved them, and was totally surprised. I was equally as happy when I went and bought my Keurig for my anniversary present.

At Stacy's wedding - don't we make a great couple!

Happy anniversary baby - I love you!!!!!

The Biggest Loser

2009-11-11T10:33:00.000-08:00

I've watched The Biggest Loser on and off in past seasons. For some reason it just never made it into my regular scheduled programming. But this season, I actually started watching at the beginning and I've been totally addicted. It's so motivating and inspiring to see the change in these people.

Two things that bug me about the show... 1. When did Jillian and Bob become therapists in addition to trainers?? 2. Could they be more obvious and cheesy about the sponsors of the week? I mean, I get it - there are sponsors that want to see their product and have everyone talking about it, but really?! It's so staged and I just don't remember it being this bad in past seasons.

Okay, so now that that is off my chest, I can say that I really do think the show is awesome, and it makes me want to make an even bigger change in my habits. I really wish I could afford to take a month off of work and workout as much as they do, with a trainer, and have all of my meals made for me or at least all of the ingredients provided and the tips for cooking that they get. I keep thinking - man, if I could go to the ranch for a few weeks, I could totally shave off 20 lbs and be right where I want to be!

But I can't... so here I am wondering, how much of it is realistic for me to really do? I know 2 things.
1. I've come a good way from where I started - changing many of my eating habits with weight watchers (even though I'm not counting points anymore - and maybe I need to again), I've changed lots of my habits and am overall much more aware of what I am eating and how much. Now the trick is to go from being AWARE that I am eating to crap, to just not doing it! And also consistency in going to the gym and getting the exercise I so desperately needed.
2. I still have further to go. I am not willing to give it all up - I want to enjoy my food, and there are things that I like that I know are not good for me. But I do think in moderation that is ok. The trick is making sure that it is moderation. I do like working out, and most of the time, I am motivated to go. But am I going often enough and doing enough when I am there? And there are definitely still times when I just don't want to go.

So now I am trying to finding my balance - I guess that's what it is all about, right?

I'm back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-11-11T08:35:00.000-08:00

Yes, it's true... the moment you all have been waiting for... I'M BACK!!! Now, we'll see how long I stay for. I'm really trying, but it is tough. The thing that I have the hardest time with is once it's been a little while since I've had time to post, I feel like there is so much to cover and I want to get to it all. I hate to leave anything out. So I wait until I have time to really post a lot of things, and then the list just gets longer of what I need to post about, and so I wait longer, and you get the cycle.

So here is my almost new year resolution - I am going to try really, really hard to keep my blog more updated, even if it means I don't cover it all.

But in the past 2 months since I last posted, there are a few big things I need to cover, so here is a preview list of things to come...
**Trey and I celebrated our 4th anniversary! We had an awesome weekend together and can't believe how fast the time has gone by. Here's to 4 x 4 x 4 x 4 x infinity more! XOXO
**Madelyn is a superstar (what else is new?!)... I need to tell you about the song she wrote (and sang to us), her grades and how hard she is working at school, and of course little fun antidotes of her charming personality. Oh, and wait till you see the pictures that her could be professional photographer Aunt April took - they are A-M-A-Z-I-N-G (great photographer, super subject)!
**I still have braces... but they aren't so bad anymore. And I have a cool little feature to show you - stay tuned.
**In 10 days (yes - that's only TEN DAYS!!!!!) we are headed to VEGAS, BABY!!!! Oh, and I'll be 30 years old. I am so excited, I can't stand it. My stomach gets into knots when I think about it - I remember feeling like it was so far away, and in only 1 more day, we are down to single digit countdown.
**Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and I can't wait - it's my absolute favorite holiday. And this year, like in so many past, I have so much to be thankful for. Although I am not cool enough to blog about a different reason / person each day, I will make the time to blog about the people / things as a whole. And to be sure to tell everyone that I love, just why I do. So be on the lookout.
**We made (a few) trips to Houston in the past few months where I got to spend some time with my adorable niece, Mia. And this last trip, I finally got to see my bf - the hot tamale - Aurelia. It was so great to just relax and spend some time with family and friends.

Okay, that's all I can think of for now. Stay tuned, and I'll update you on all of these are more!

2009-09-13T13:29:00.001-07:00

Happy 33rd Birthday Trey!!!

Today is Trey's birthday! It's an exciting and special day. Today, since it's all about Trey, it gives me an opportunity to reflect on this wonderful person that is my husband. Although I know it every day (well - okay - most days), today especially I am reminded of how lucky I am to have married such a loving, amazing, supportive man. He is truly my soul mate - the perfect compliment and match to me, and I am so thankful to have him.

Happy Birthday Sweetie!

2009-09-03T18:19:00.001-07:00

I know I am being a big baby. I know it could be so worse. I know I am a very fortunate person. I know I truly have little to complain about.

BUT...

This really sucks! I hate having braces. And I do know it will get easier, I will get used to it, and it's not THAT bad. But it feels like it is that bad and I won't ever get used to it. My mouth is so sore, that I don't even want to talk. And you all know how bad it must be for me to not want to talk. I have sores all inside my mouth, my lips are so dry they are cracking, and it really hurts!

I hate having braces!!

I can now officially be known as...

2009-09-01T12:03:00.001-07:00

Sarah Braceface Gourley
Metal Mouth
Rarah Braceface

Yes, it is true - I now officially have a full mouth of braces. This morning I went for my 8:15 am appointment and didn't leave there until after 11:00. It was an interesting experience. The braces themselves weren't so bad, but the apparatus they used to hold my mouth open was brutal. It makes it where you can't really swallow and when you do, it rubs against the insides of your mouth - not comfortable. The worst part was the sounds. Everything sounds so much worse than it is, but you can't help but tense up at the sounds of the machines, and the look of pliers going in and out of your mouth. Oh, and the light gun that dries the glue - that is a freaky thing to see coming at you. The worst part was the little rounded saw that he uses to shave off little bits of my enamel to allow for room for my teeth to shift. The good thing is that this alleviates the need to have any teeth pulled; the bad news is it sounds and feels like a blade going between my teeth and into my gums. And when it's all done, I have a mouth full of blood to show for it all! It was gross and very freaky and he'll be doing that for at least the next few appointments - oh boy!

Thank goodness for April, who woke up early to go with me. She sat through the whole appointment with me, telling me how great I was doing. It might sound silly, but when it comes to this kind of thing, I feel like a little kid that needs the comforting, and it was so great that she was there. Plus, then it meant we got pictures - because even though this is really not something I need a visual of, I know I'll be glad to have the pics.

I am sore, and excited, and broke! And as much as it stinks right now, I am very happy to finally be getting this done.

Here are few pics of the morning...

This is the mold of my teeth, and my smile BEFORE!

Dr. Jeff using the light gun that dries the glue - that thing is weird!

This thing is the WORST! It holds your mouth open for the entire time so they can do get into your mouth without problems, but you can't swallow and it hurts!

All done!!! Can you see how crooked the wire is? That is how crooked my teeth are. But not for long!!!!!

Summer's over, and it was a busy one!

2009-08-29T08:04:00.000-07:00

I guess summer is now officially over. Madelyn went back to school this past Wednesday, Jackie and Dani went back to school this past Monday, and holy cow - it's September in 3 days! Where did the time go? It was a fun and crazy summer with lot's going on. Obviously you know all about Madelyn going to camp. In addition to that Trey and I each got a week off with her. She was all set to go to Grammy camp for a week in August, but unfortunately Grammy had a crazy accident and had to have surgery instead. It's a long, odd story, but the outcome is that she is recovering just fine and will be okay. The short version... while working on the ranch with Grandad with some some cows, one of the cows kicked a steel pipe that they were working with and it swung up and hit in her the face. Talk about "the perfect storm". It was a total fluke accident, but it hit her just right where it resulted in several fractures in her face. She had to have surgery to repair, and poor Grammy - her entire side of her face was literally black and blue. But like I said, she is doing sooo much better now, and with some more rest and a little TLC, she is going to be her normal self again. Thank goodness!!!! So anyway, instead of Grammy camp, Madelyn got a week of a little bit of this and a little bit of that. She spent a few mornings with the big girls - Jackie and Dani. They were absolute angels stepping in to keep her for us. April covered an afternoon after school and a day she didn't have school, and Trey and I took a few half days to balance the rest. It was CRAZY, but it all worked out just fine.

After that week, we headed to San Antonio for a little family vacation with my mom, Allan, Megan, Mia, Mara, Jacob, and us. It was tons of fun! We got to see Aunt Jo and had really yummy grilled hamburgers and hotdogs (thanks Marty) and swim. That was the highlight of the weekend!!! But we also went to the wax museum and Ripley's Believe it or Not museum, took a boat tour of the riverwalk, went to the Natural Bridge Caverns (very cool - and a good walking workout), and ate a ton of good food. It was so much fun, and so sad that when it was over, basically so was our summer. So that's all kept us pretty busy.

Unfortunately, the summer didn't end on the brightest note for me. I've been feeling great, with no active Lupus flare ups for several months now, and at the beginning of the summer, my Dr. and I discussed working on lowering and getting of some of my meds. We decided to wait until the end of the summer because being in the sun has caused flare ups for me in the past. So here I was thinking we were being so smart and strategic about it all. So about 6 weeks ago, I had another appt and we decided to get it going. I went off 2 of my meds, and started to taper down the Prednisone (steroid) from the 5 mg I was taking daily. The plan was to reduce by 1 mg each month. Very slow. Well, I went to 4 mg with no problem. Then I went to 3 mg and a week into it, my chest started to hurt. I am so disappointed and frustrated. I have now been back at 5 mg for a week, but since I didn't go back up to a big dose, I am still feeling bad. In the past, when I've had a flare up, it's taken a little while with big doses (40 - 60 mg) to get me feeling better, then we drop down. But I really didn't and don't want to go back up to that kind of a dose. So I am happy that we are trying a mild increase to a small dose to take care of it, and I expect that it means it will take me a little while to be feeling better - since it's such a small dose still, I am not going to all of a sudden be feeling better like before. But I just want to be feeling okay, and I really want to be off this darn medicine. I know that the small dose that I am on - even at 5 mg - is really not that bad, but I just want OFF. Oh well - it is what it is, right?

So the really great news is that we've decided to do something big for my 30th birthday this year. I am so excited I can barely stand it!!!! Trey and I, with my mom, Lene and Michael, are going to Las Vegas for 4 days for my birthday!!!!!! We leave on Saturday (my bday) 11/21 and come back Tuesday night. Then we have Thanksgiving that Thursday, which is my absolute favorite holiday. It is going to be so awesome!!!!! So the countdown has begun and right now we are at 84 days! It seems so far away, but I know it will go by so fast. Vegas Baby!!!

Well I think that is it. You are all caught up now.

2009-07-11T12:30:00.001-07:00

Madelyn got back from camp, and just as the pictures seemed, she had an awesome time! We all missed her so much, and she missed everyone too. But she has such a great, fun, rewarding experience that it is soooo worth it! She's already ready to go back next year, and for longer!

So while she was there she did some incredible stuff... there was swimming every day, a huge rope swing, a gigantic slip n slide that was part of the July 4th carnival, cooking (she learned how to make pita over a fire, and chocolate balls), lots of good food, lots of great friends, and tons of adventures. She was so busy having fun, that she didn't even read her mail!!! Yes - after we all worried and fretted about making sure she got tons of mail - emails, letters, card, packages, etc. - she didn't even read any of it. I was laughing so hard, when as I was unpacking her, I came across of her mail in a huge pile, practically untouched. Anything that was mailed to her (cards, letters) WASN'T EVEN OPENED!!! She opened packages and took all the goodies out, but really didn't even know who sent her what because she didn't open the notes that went with them!! I'm telling you that kid cracks me up!

After a few leisurely days back at home with Daddy and Rarah, Madelyn is now with her mom and stepdad for a few weeks. We were so sad for her to go, and so was she, but she is also so excited to spend some time with her other side of the family too.

So I guess it's back to the real world for me... no more vacations for a little bit, and Monday I am back at work for the first full week I'll be working in over a month. What a bummer!!!

T minus 24 hours!

2009-07-07T07:31:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited I can hardly stand it. This time tomorrow, we'll be pulling through the gates at GFC to pick up the princess and my big girls too!!! It's very bitter sweet... I am so ready to see Madelyn and hear all about her camp adventures, the friends she made, and the fun things they did. I am so ready to give her a big hug and kiss and squeeze her tight. But I am also sad that her first summer at sleep-away camp is already over too. It went by really fast, and really slow at the same time. I just hope she can remember all of it so she can tell us EVERYTHING! I wish I could go back to camp...

I have to give another shout out to the friends that were at camp while Madelyn was there. They made it bearable for us back home. The daily doses and updated on how much fun she was having was both a relief and a joy to each day. It's been super difficult these past few days with no one there to send me texts, emails, and pictures! Next year, we'll have to coordinate their staffing time so that they aren't all there at the same time! Hello - priorities!!!

This morning was a little difficult. My routine for the past 9 days has been:
1. arrive at work
2. skim for important emails, skip all the others and come back to later
3. get on GFC site, look for pictures
4. email Madelyn

No #4. today. So sad. I didn't really know what to do - it felt so weird to not email her. So I started to email her anyway, but then I thought - well that's just ridiculous, she won't even get it!

Last night I made a big Welcome Home poster for Madelyn, and tonight I'm going to get some balloons to hang with it for when she gets home. I remember my mom used to always pick me up from the bus drop off (I took the bus home with all of my friends) with balloons, signs and presents. It was like it was my birthday! Spoiled, I know... but I guess the tradition must continue.

Well, I guess I better get some work done since today is my Friday!

And by the way... if I hear one more thing about Michael Jackson, I am going to scream. Enough already - let's talk about some real news!!!!!

Camp ROCKS

2009-07-02T07:04:00.000-07:00

Well, 4 complete days of camp have come and gone, and my spies have given daily reports that Madelyn is all smiles and having an awesome time at camp. It's such a relief. It's harder than I thought with her being there (for me - not her!). It's not that I don't get to see her - I'm used to that - but I find myself constantly worrying about her. Is she having fun, is she getting along with her new friends, does she have enough clothes, enough panties, is she getting enough to eat, enough rest, enough water, is she homesick, blah, blah, blah - you get the picture. It's been a HUGE relief to have some friends there staffing this week (what a great coincidence that they are there the same week as Mads - that was a great surprise), and to hear little updates on how she's doing. Not just that she's doing well, but I've gotten specifics on some of the things they are doing, and some things she said...

For example: I asked Aimee to tell her that at the rate she was going, she better make sure she sends her clothes to laundry. (On day 2, I'd seen pics of her in 4 different outfits!! And when we packed her I packed her 11 outfits for 10 days and told her she didn't have to do laundry if she didn't want to). So now I've been panicking, think OMG - she's not going to send her clothes to get washed because "Rarah said I didn't have to", and then she's going to get to day 6 or 7 and not have any clean clothes! So I was going to go buy a few more outfits and get them in the mail real quick. And then I thought - no, she'll figure it out. She's a big girl, and at the end of the day if she has to wear some dirty clothes it's not the end of the world. Now you all know 1. this is a kid who wants to change if she gets the slightest amount of dirt or stain on her shirt, and 2. the thought of her having to wear dirty clothes both grosses me out and makes me feel just awful! So anyway, I asked Aimee to tell her to be sure to send laundry. I get a message from Barrett the next day, along with my "daily dose" that Madelyn is doing great and having fun, she says... "She said she thought she would be ok with her clothes, but will need to wash her underwear". I just laughed. That's my kiddo!

So in all of the pictures we've seen, Madelyn seems to be having the time of her life. PHEW! I really thought she would, but you just never know. She's so independent, strong willed, and fun, and so I really did think camp would be nothing but wonderful for her. It's just so nice that this experience is transpiring as we'd hoped. Again, a huge thanks to our friends who helped make this decision. It wasn't easy, let me tell you. But Trey and I discussed it a ton, and talked to several people with more experience in this area, and ultimately, I am so glad we made the decision to send her to Greene.

Madelyn's having a BLAST at camp!

2009-06-29T14:59:00.000-07:00

I'm back at work today and it has been incredibly hard to concentrate and get anything done. Here are few of the thoughts that have run through my head today...

7:00 am - I hope Madelyn had a good night last night
7:05 am - Wonder what they will do today
7:10 am - I can't wait to get to work and see if they posted pictures
7:12 am - Okay stop thinking about camp, and get ready for work. Yuck - have to go back to work
7:20 am - No - you can't check pictures yet. You have to get to work first. That's the deal
8:05 am - This traffic sucks... I wish I was at camp instead of heading to work
8:50 am - Okay, at work - have a lot to get done today
8:51 am - Okay, first I'll see if there are pictures posted, then I'll get work done
8:55 am - What? No pictures?? Yeez... what a bummer
8:59 am - Maybe if I email her, THEN I can focus on getting some work done
9:10 am - Still no pictures
9:12 am - Still no pictures
9:20 am - Still no pictures
9:30 am - Still no pictures
9:40 am - Okay, this is ridiculous! I thought they posted pictures during the night
9:50 am - Hello - get some work done
10:00 am - I hope Madelyn ate a good breakfast. Wonder what they are doing now. Wonder what she's wearing and if she dirt on it and has changed clothes yet.
10:15 am - Still no pictures
10:20 am - Still no pictures
10:21 am - text from April "Pictures are loaded!" - What, I just checked...
10:25 am - There she is!! Yay, she's having a great time I can tell
10:30 - Okay, maybe now I can focus on work

Imagine all of this repeating throughout the day. With a few hours of actual work thrown in there, but not much. It's been so hard to get anything productive done!!

Then I got a call from Barrett and Aimee, who are at camp this week. They went by to see Madelyn and check on her, and were calling with a report. It put the biggest smile on my face to hear that she is loving camp and having a blast!! Madelyn thought it was so cool that they know me, and when Aimee asked her what she should tell me was her favorite part of camp so far, she said, "EVERYTHING! My bunk is wonderful!". She also said to tell me that she got just a little homesick for a minute, but she got over it fast. How cute is that! When Barrett told her that we went to camp together when we were her age, she just couldn't believe it!

So then, a few minutes ago I got a message from Oren, who is also at Greene this week. He checked on Mads and said she was having a blast and it was so great to see her running around mad with all of her new friends.

WOW. We are so lucky to have such awesome friends, and great spies!! I'm so grateful for them and the knowledge that our princess is having so much fun!

Our baby is growing up!

2009-06-28T20:39:00.000-07:00

Well, we got Madelyn all dropped off and settled in at Greene Family Camp this morning. It was a wildly successful event.

Getting ready to leave the house this morning... GFC bound!

But before we left, April had a little surprise for Madelyn... a new bunkbed charm for her charm bracelet! Madelyn loved it so much, she asked April to get it put on her bracelet and mail it to camp!!

We made it in great time - thankfully since she was so excited and ready to be there.

On our way to camp... are we there yet?!

Pulling into camp... the excitement was boiling over!

We got her through check-in and to her bunk in quick time, and we even got to say hello to Loui - the camp director who has been around since before I was at Greene, and was very helpful in our decision making for Madelyn to go to camp. She was unpacked and all settled, and within minutes, fast friends! Dena, who we met last weekend at the pool party, is in Madelyn's bunk and we are so happy about that - they immediately hit it off last weekend, and today were instantly by each other's side.

At her cabin - all ready to meet her bunkmates!

Getting all settled in - she could have cared less where I put her stuff - she just wanted to get her camp experience started!

So after we got her bed made, clothes unpacked and cubbies filled, we headed to Kibbutz to see Dani and Jackie. At first I was worried because there was no one around, but as we were getting ready to head back down to main camp, they came walking up. Dani ran straight to Madelyn - she was so happy to see her and so excited that she is finally at camp. Jackie wasn't far behind and we got to chat for a minute and get a few pics in before we got kicked off of Kibbutz.

So excited to see her big cousins!

It all brought back incredible memories of my days at Greene. I'm so thrilled that Madelyn gets to experience this. I just know that it will be such a rewarding, growing, phenomenal time for her.

So as the day has progressed, it hasn't been easy. Nerves are on overdrive, and we're all so anxious about Madelyn being away. It was especially hard for Trey come 6:30, as I know it was for Jennifer too. This is the first time to not talk to Madelyn for a day, let alone 10! We all know that Madelyn is going to do great, have a wonderful time, and learn so much. But the question is... will we survive?!?! I know that we will, but in the meantime, Trey and I are learning how to be sooo happy, and sooo sad at the same time. All the way home I was worried that I forgot to pack something, or tell her something. I know she's fine, but I can't help it.

I hope that Madelyn found the surprises I left under her pillow from Daddy and Rarah, and one from Bubbe. I know she'll have tons of mail every day - there is already 7 emails waiting to be printed for tomorrow's mail call. I just hope she has enough time to read them all. I can't wait to hear from her, but I also hope she doesn't get too worried or consumed with trying to write everyone. Just one letter to let us know she's doing as well as we know she will, and that's all I need.

So that's all for now. Enjoy the pics of camp dropoff!

One last pic... as we were leaving (she couldn't get rid of us fast enough!), Madelyn was already hanging with her new friends!

Follow me to GFC...

2009-06-27T22:22:00.000-07:00

T minus 6 hours...

Tomorrow morning Madelyn is headed to Greene Family Camp for her first summer sleep-away camp experience. I am SUPER excited, and really nervous too. I've gone through her packing list 3 or 4 times tonight, counted her outfits, panties, socks, checked for sunblock, waterbottle, stationary with labels and stamps, toothbrush, hairbrush, and bedding galore. I recounted her outfits and panties - for fear that she'll run out. And just as I always did when I went to camp, she has more than enough to get her through (of course I went over the suggested quantities just a little).

Madelyn is incredibly excited, and I am so glad that she is still looking so forward to it. I just know she'll have such an awesome time and I think this will be an amazing experience for her - both for the fun, and for the learning experiences too.

Well, it's really late, and I'm exhausted so I'll post on how the drop off goes. Don't forget to write her - email me if you need the email login or address info.

Wow - these last few days have been busy...

2009-06-24T08:43:00.000-07:00

We had an awesome Father's Day weekend! Grammy and Grandad came to Dallas for a visit, and they brought with them Bijou (Grammy's maltese puppy), and Flora (Grandad's newest find... a fawn - baby deer - that they are bottle feeding). It was tons of fun. We relaxed around the house, went bowling, grilled steaks for dinner, and just enjoyed everyone being together. Unfortunately, back to Blanco they went Sunday morning...

Sunday evening Trey, Madelyn, and I went to a pool party for all of the GFC Campers from Dallas that are Madelyn's age and going to camp for the first time together. Trey and I got an email from one of the parents that they were organized a little pool party to get all the kids together before camp so they would make some friends and know some other kids before they got there. I was so excited at this that I cried. Yes, I know... really, cried?! But it was one of my biggest fears that Madelyn wouldn't know any other kids, and this just made that one step so much better. She hit it off right away with one of the other girls, and of course the boys. I'm so hoping that they'll be in the same cabin (the girl only of course!) and that this experience will give her some friends in Dallas that she can get together with and spend time with when she is here.

So here we are on Wednesday - hump day. Madelyn and I have had 2 days of vacation so far, and they have been F-U-N! On Monday we had some chores to take care of - the A/C people came out for summer time checkup, and we had our quarterly pest control maintenance completed too. Both appts. were scheduled for 9:00 am and both were here and working by then! Madelyn woke up lazily - watched a movie while I did some cleaning, and then we had lunch at home. Ashley came over for lunch and then we took Madelyn to the roller rink for some roller skating. She tried out roller blades for the first time and she did great! There were lots of falls (she has a huge bruise on her elbow - yikes!), but she was really awesome. She'd just get right back up and tell us "I'm fine, I'm fine", with a roll of the eyes that said - back off, you're embarrassing me! After roller skating, we headed to Target to attempt to get the rest of the camp list taken care of. Notice I said attempt. We weren't very successful, and my patience was just about out, so we called it quits on that for the day. Ash headed home and April and I took Madelyn for some fro yo... for those of you not cool enough - that is frozen yogurt. There is this great place that opened not too far from the house. You fill your own cup (there are about 10 flavors to chose from) and then you put on your own toppings. There candy toppings and fruit. The catch is, you pay by the ounce. We've been frequenting this place, and let me tell you, as hard as I try I don't have it down to a science yet. It costs me almost $5 every time we go, and I keep trying to keep it down, but before you know it, you've filled to the top! DANGEROUS!!!! So then we went home, and cooked dinner, and chilled a little with daddy.

Yesterday we went to the gym in the morning, followed by lunch at Freebirds with April, and then off to do more camp shopping. This time we hit Khol's, and JACKPOT! We got almost everything that remained on the list. YIPPEE!!! I was so excited and it was relatively cheap too. So from there we headed to Leenie's for some pool time. Madelyn was so great helping me get sunblock on my back. We swam for a bit, played a few games in the pool, and then headed home. Last night we got Madelyn's stuff for camp all labeled, and mostly packed up. It's getting close, and she is so excited! Yesterday, Rarah got into a little trouble too. We got a letter from Jackie at camp (it was written to Trey, Madelyn and I), and ooops... I shred it before Trey got to read it! YIKES. He was so NOT happy with me. I was cleaning up, and wasn't even thinking. I tried to regurgitate what it said to him... camp is fun, it's really hot, blah blah blah... It didn't work! He wasn't having any of it. So I had to send an emergency email to Jackie last night for help to redeem me!

This morning I had an orthodontist appt for a second opinion on the process I'll need for my braces. I got mostly the same prognosis - 2 years and $6000!!! But this dr. said I'll need teeth pulled to make room and the other one didn't say anything about that! So now I don't know what to do. I left a message for the first dr. to see if he thinks I need teeth pulled and just didn't say, or what. I guess depending on what he says, I'll go for a 3rd opinion - a tie breaker maybe???!!!!! Oy vey! All I can say is, to anyone out there with young kids, when they start to fight you on getting braces when they are young, you send them to me and I'll set them straight. This is for the birds.

Well, today we are off to have lunch with daddy and go to the Children's Museum and IMAX. Tonight we're picking up Madelyn's cousin, Hollie, for a sleepover and day of fun with us tomorrow! Hopefully it will provide a much needed break for her mom and dad (they just had twins!), and give Madelyn and Hollie some good play time. Oh yeah, and a little break time for me too!!!!

So that's it for now. More to come soon.

Madelyn has new cousins

2009-06-18T16:57:00.000-07:00

It's been a long, exciting, exhausting week for the Studdard (and extended) family. For those of you who have been following, Stephanie (Madelyn's Aunt) had her twins Wednesday morning. It's been a long journey to get there, and now the real journey begins. Brooke was born with very little complication, but did have Pneumonia and has had to spend a few days in NICU. She is doing well, and they will hopefully get to take her home soon. Kamryn, who was diagnosed early on with CDH, has also been in the NICU. And tonight, amazingly enough, they were able to perform surgery. This came upon much sooner than expected, and we just heard that it went extremely well. That is all I am going to say on the details, as I don't know enough and certainly can't explain it. You can follow their blog, though, through the link on the lower right of mine.

What I can tell you is that these are amazing people, with extraordinary determination. I am so fortunate to be linked to them - through Madelyn, and through choice. I've felt so connected to their story and everything they are going through, as I know so many of you are through your constant inquires to me. I'm just so grateful to be a part of it all. Kamryn, and all of the family, still has a long road ahead of her / them, but they are all so positive and strong, and are getting through it all so wonderfully. Here's to continued happiness, success, and great health to them all!

Sunday, oh Sunday...

2009-06-14T10:43:00.000-07:00

The countdown has begun... One more week of work and then I am on V-A-C-A-T-I-O-N with my princess! I have to start thinking of some low key fun things we can do. Any suggestions?? And if anyone wants to contribute to the "entertain a 7 1/2 year old in 95 degree weather" fund that would be great too!!! I'm just so excited to see her and spend some good time together.

Today I start counting points again, so wish me luck. I've been continuing to think of weight watchers when I eat, but I have not been actually writing down everything I eat and counting the points for the past probably 6 weeks. It started with being out of town and losing track one week and I just never got back to my spreadsheet. So today I get back on the strict wagon. I have I think 6 - 10 more pounds I'd like to lose (so long as it drops from the right area - my tummy). I definitely hit a plateau a little while back, so now I have to really watch it, and I'm trying to change up my workouts a bit too.

Today the girls went off to camp, their last year at Greene as campers. It's so exciting and so sad at the same time. This summer they are on Kibbutz - it's much like a Kibbutz in Israel where they as a group do all of their own living work such as cleaning, cooking, taking care of their environment (there is a garden and a mini zoo that they tend to), etc. It's great work and TONS of fun thrown in there too. When I went to Kibbutz 15 years ago, the girls were only 6 months old and they took me to camp. WOW - it's been 15 years. I think of them as babies taking me to my last year at camp as campers, and ironically there last year at camp as campers is Madelyn's first year. The cycle is so cool and exciting. I'm still a nervous wreck about Madelyn being away at camp for 10 days, but I just know she is going to have such a blast. I'd bet money that when we pick her up she says she's not ready to go home yet!

Ok - well it's Sunday afternoon and I have to go get some productive things done. Anyone know where I can find the motivation to be productive, because I sure don't have it!!!

2009-06-13T10:21:00.000-07:00

This morning started out much like most Saturdays... the alarm went off way to early, but I got my lazy butt out of bed anyway, and headed to step class. As usual, it rocked. I'm always so happy when I go - especially to this one because the energy is amazing, the instructor rocks, and by the time we are done I am dripping in sweat - I think it's a great workout.

This afternoon will entail some errands (mostly returning some things - good!) and some much needed, overdue pampering in the form of a manicure and pedicure. I feel so guilty indulging myself while Trey is working his tail off, but what's a girl to do?! Speaking of Trey - he has been working so hard. Last weekend and this morning he spent building a pergola for a friend of work. A very nice job for him indeed. Luckily April's friend Mike was available and wanting to earn some extra $$ and Trey had some help. It made the job go much smoother and quicker, and I think Trey really liked having some company too. They got along great and Trey was super impressed with Mike, so that's great. He came home for a quick swaparoo of tools and off to grab a quick lunch with Mike before they move on to the next job. It's crazy how busy Trey has been. He's really enjoying it, but it's also exhausting and I worry that he'll just plain wear himself out. And I've had to be on him about making sure he stops to eat lunch, and to wear sunscreen (which I am positive he is not today!). But he's a grown man so all I can do is be a nagging wife, and leave it up to him. Now, are you ready for this... they went to Whataburger for lunch, because... Mike has NEVER been to a Whataburger!!!! Hello???!!!! What's the matter with him? He's from Louisiana, but still!

Well, I guess that is it for now. Off I go.

My mom

2009-06-11T16:55:00.000-07:00

So here I am, sitting at the computer just killing a little time, and I decided to catch up on some blogging - both doing and reading. I was trying to think of what to blog about, so I started instead with reading my friends that I hadn't caught up on in a few days. So I go to my mom's blog - I can always count on her to have a new entry! and I find an entry that just blows me away and nearly brings me to tears. You see, I know what a wonderful, amazing person, mother and friend she is. I've had the absolute joy and luck to have known this for a longer time than anyone else, and to have experienced it firsthand my entire life. I know how she always manages to have the right answer, or can make you laugh when you need it most, give you a shoulder to cry on when that's what you need instead, and somehow just generally has it all figured out. But no one else knows this quite like I do. And so when I read her latest post - "What goes around comes around", it made me smile because it's just one example and one way for everyone else to see the rock that she is. I am so proud of her, and I know that my Meemaw is too. Here is her post...

Hi All,
I came in this morning and quickly checked a few blogs that I had not read in a few days. One was Lisa Bearnson's blog. This is the post that I copied from hers...

Hey Everyone!I recently found out about a terrific scrapbooking gal who desperately needs our love, support and prayers. Barb Larsen is from Montana and has been sick for months with lots of testing going on. They finally found a tumor the size of a baseball in her spleen. This is a very rare kind of cancer and she has been in a lot of pain.This is a photo of Barb (on the right) with my pal, Lori Chadwick. (Would not let me copy the pictures. See Lisa's Bearnson's blog)

The hospitals in Montana have told her this is to big for them and they are transferring her to Houston, Texas. Even with all of this going on, she has been working on the farm and continuing her work with her 4H girls. She was even painting the animal pens at the state fair with her girls last week. When asked why she would possibly do this, she said it was the best way to ignore the pain because it would be a long time before she would get to work with her girls again. She loves scrapbooking and is very dedicated to it. She even teaches her 4H girls and they make albums together.

Let's all send Barb a card and a note of support to let her know we are thinking of her. She leaves for Texas on June 15 but her family will forward the cards to her.
Her information is:
Barb Larsen
Box 116
Galata, MT 59444

When you send a card, just leave your name, hometown and state on this blog. I will be gone for the next week on vacation but when I return (Friday June 19th) I will randomly select two people who have sent a card. Here's the fun part. I will send a box ofscrapbooking goodies to each of the winners! So--don't delay. Send your card to Barb today. It will surely put a big smile on her face to know people all over the world are thinking of her.

I just knew after reading that I wanted to offer to do whatever I might be able to while Barb was here in Houston. I can't imagine how scary to be sick and so far away from home and friends and family. I have always maintained that are scrappers are the best of the best and we never meet strangers. While we might be a bit strange we don't know what a stranger is. I immediately sent Lisa a comment to her post offering mine and Kim's (don't ya love how I speak for her) help in anyway. I heard from Lori Chadwick in minutes and you could just hear relief in the tone that someone would care about her friend and help her out. I can't tell you the feeling I had that I had made such a difference with what I think is just a small offer of not much. I just felt this pull, a desire to want to go visit, meet these people, maybe offer a bit of comfort. In emailing back and forth I have to say I am really looking forward to meeting Barb and her husband Joe. They sound like fine people. Lori and Barb met through scrapping (there is that bond again) and on a Bazzill bus tour as a matter of fact. Same one I will be taking in August at CE. Small world don't you think.

I ask that all you that read this keep Barb in your prayers and send her a card.

It makes me so proud to think of her opening her heart to be a friend to this total stranger, and hopefully making this experience a little less scary.

I love you mom!

I survived my 2nd Cycling Class

2009-06-09T19:58:00.000-07:00

As hard as I tried to be working late... we got home from work in time for me to make it to my 2nd cycling class. I'm not going to lie - a very big part of me did NOT want to go. But I've committed to doing it at least 4 times before I decide if I like it or not and want to continue. I will tell you, I do not like it. But I do feel like it's a great workout. And it was much easier this time. I took Alex's advice and focused on pulling my legs in instead of pushing out. This might sound silly, but it really helped. Last time, especially when we were up out of the saddle, I found that I was struggling to keep my knees from locking. But this time I focused on pulling in and it was much easier to control the motion. So all in all, I really enjoyed it - even though it was hard, and I felt like I pushed myself better than last time and still made it the entire hour!

Jennifer texted us that Madelyn got to be the star of the Sea Lion show at the San Diego Zoo today!!! She got to hug and get a kiss from the sea lion - she was SUPER excited. And the rest of the day people were recognizing her all over the zoo and telling her how great she did. I can just imagine the expression on her face and the sassiness she's swinging now.

Ok, well... I made dinner for Trey and I and finished cleaning up the kitchen, and now I am off to try out my new shower head - YIPPEE!!! Our shower head has been having this awful loud ringing noise coming from it for - oh - probably a month now. And neither Trey or I thought - hey, why don't we just go buy a new one. Can you believe that - how silly to have not thought of it sooner. So when Trey said he was going to get a new one, I thought - jeez... novel concept! Then I started thinking about it and we've had that one since living Austin - that's over 5 years and 4 moves.

Oh yeah - one more thing... I know many of you have been reading Stephanie's blog - Kamryn Hope's Blog - through mine (Stephanie is Madelyn's aunt / Jennifer's sister). Well today she was admitted to the hospital to start the adventure of waiting for her twins - Kamryn and Brooke - to arrive. You can read all about CDH from her blog and the journey they are beginning. We're thinking good, happy, healthy thoughts for her and their entire family!

Food Finds

2009-06-09T10:46:00.000-07:00

I'm not going to turn into Hungry Girl... don't worry! But I have found some great food finds / recipes lately (most of you know it's my biggest, latest craze), and as I am sitting here enjoying 2 of them for lunch, I thought I'd clue you all in...

1. Serving Size Hummus!! That's right people - already packaged in a serving size - great to take on the go, and especially great to not sit down and eat half a tub before you know it! April and I found it at Costco. It's really yummy (a bit of a lemon flavor) and a nice creamy texture. I'm loving it with tuscan herb pita chips. Mmmm - just had to stop typing to eat one.

2. Recipe: Greek Chicken (if you're not a greek fan, hang on... I changed it up a little bit for Trey and April and they loved it too).

Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast
- 1 can italian style dice tomato (garlic, oregano, basil)
- 1 tablespoon bottled minced garlic
- little bit of olive oil (i think it was 1 teaspoon - not completely sure since i don't have the recipe in front of me - it wasn't much - just enough to cook chicken a little)
- feta cheese (don't remember the amount, but it's just a sprinkling at the end)

* Heat nonstick skillet over med-high heat, add olive oil, add chicken breasts
* Cook chicken about 3 minutes each on both sides (until browned)
* Those of you who know me know how I LOVE to season, so I actually sprinkled a tiny (and I do mean TINY) bit of seasoning on the chicken while it browned - I think if you don't have any seasoning when it's first cooking it lacks season at the end). I actually used my moroccan rub that I just got from pampered chef. (Side note: I was soooooooooo excited when I found on my doorstep on Saturday a big box with my Pampered Chef stuff in it. As only my mom will truly understand, the disappointment was when I opened the box, pulled out all my goodies, and said... that's all I got! Guess I'll have to do another order!
* Reduce heat to medium
* Add can diced tomato, minced garlic
* Cover and cook aprox 11 minutes until chicken is done
* Serve with feta cheese sprinkled on top
* For Trey and April, we substituted mozzarella cheese and they both loved it - gave it more of an italian than greek flavor. I used the feta and loved it too. In fact, I just had the leftovers for lunch and it was yummy all over again!
* We served over brown rice, and with a side of roasted asparagus - Mmmm Mmmm Good!
** For those of you WW points counters, I think the chicken with cheese was 6 points

3. Recipe: BBQ Chicken Cheddar Wrap Ups
This is a recipe I got from the Kraft Magazine (it's also on their website). I actually took 2 recipes and combined them.

Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green pepper
- 1/2 onion
- little olive oil (same as above - I think I used the tiniest amount and then Pam olive oil spray)
- 1/4 cup BBQ Sauce
- Tortillas
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese

* Heat nonstick skillet or wok over med heat, with olive oil
* Add chicken and cook about 5 minutes until lightly browned
* Add peppers, onions and cook aprox 7-8 minutes until peppers softened little, onions translucent, and chicken just about done
* Add BBQ Sauce and cook 3 minutes
**This is where the BBQ Chicken recipe ends. I mixed with another recipe to serve in warmed low carb tortillas with a little shredded reduced fat cheddar cheese and turned it into a wrap

YUMMY, EASY, GREAT LEFTOVERS!!!!

So there you have it. I have a great new shrimp pasta recipe too if anyone is interested, I may post it later.

2009-06-09T09:05:00.000-07:00

I got all caught up on Army Wives, and it was soooo good. I watched 19 episodes in 5 days. Phew... I was tired. Especially since I cry at almost every episode. It's so weird to think about how all of the events progressed in a manner of days - I kept having to remind myself that most people would have been watching over 4 1/2 months, not 5 days! Sunday was the season 3 premier and it was great. I am telling you - if you don't watch this show, you are missing out!

Friday was great - April and I went to the gym in the morning and then headed to Austin for Kingsley's graduation party. It was a bit of a long drive, especially since other drivers just weren't cooperating and wouldn't get out of our way. But we got there with time to spare so we made a quick stop in Round Rock at the outlet. We drive past it all the time and never stop, so we decided - what the heck. As it turned out, I found a few great sweaters at a super cheap price at Ann Taylor so I was glad we stopped. We got to Kingley's party and it so great to see everyone, and Kingsley was so happy that we made it. Kelly was touched that we made the trip just for that. All in all, we had a great time, and we were so glad to be there.

We headed back to Dallas after the party - what a long drive. It's not that it's really long, but in the dark when your eyes just really want to shut - it's hard! April drove the entire way, although I offered several times, but she was just fine. I-Pod turned high and a little chit chat to keep us going and we were cruising. Although I do admit that on the way home I "rested my eyelids" just a few times...

Saturday was busy and fun, followed by Sunday which was busy and fun. Trey was working all weekend, although we did have a great dinner out Saturday.

Madelyn is loving San Diego. Last night she asked Trey to ask Rarah if I get to have In and Out Burger when I'm in California! She loved it. They spent time at Seaworld, the San Diego Zoo, and swimming. She is having a great time!!

So that's it for now, I guess... The summer has officially started - it's HOT outside. We went to get coffee yesterday and were sweating by the time we made it back! I can't wait to be on vacation in less than 2 weeks... countdown has begun!

Today is MY Friday!

2009-06-04T08:22:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited that today is my Friday. I'm finding that I definitely have summer fever lately. Maybe it's because these last 2 weeks have been a little slower than usual, or maybe it's because it's so bright and sunny and warm outside. Whatever it is, I am so ready for summer vacation! The countdown has begun, and I have only 2 weeks until I am on vacation for a week with the princess. I need to start working on some things we can do that won't be too expensive, but entertain us both. Definitely one day will be devoted to camp shopping. It amazes me how much stuff she needs for just 10 days away from home... sheets, towels, toothbrush, hair accessories, sunblock, water bottle, hats, clothes, more panties, more socks, sandals and tennis and shabbat attire, and lions and tigers and bears - oh my! Madelyn is so excited - she is ready to go to camp. Tomorrow she leaves for San Diego for a trip with her mom and stepdad, and then she only has a few weeks until camp. After camp, she'll have a couple weeks back with her mom and stepdad, and then a week with Grammy and Grandad, a week with daddy, and the finale of summer vacation is a family trip to San Antonio with Bubbe, Aunt Megan, Uncle Allan, Mia and us! It's going to be so busy, but I'm sure it will also go by so fast.

Today is my Friday, because I am off tomorrow - woohoo!! April and I are going to Austin for the day to celebrate Kingsley's (our niece) high school graduation. The actual graduation is tonight, but tomorrow night is a party at the house to celebrate. We're so excited for her as she starts such a fun time in her life. She's off to Texas State in San Marcos to start school a little early in summer... not time to waste!

So last night I watched more Army Wives. It is so good - I am completely addicted. April called this morning to see if I thought it was out to rent so I could watch it in the car on the way to Austin... silly April... I plan to be done by then! I've watched 15 episodes in 4 days. I've stayed up until around 1:00 am watching it every night. I look at the clock and think - I have to go to bed, and then I just can't help but watch 1 more episode. Only 4 more to go and then I will have seen all of season 2, and I'll be ready for season 3 to start on Sunday.

2009-06-03T08:09:00.000-07:00

I took the plunge last night and tried a cycling class at the gym. I was nervous. I'm so not a cycler, and it looks so hard. People always come out of that class dripping in sweat. They cycle for the entire hour not stopping. HELLO - not even 1 break! But Alex talked me into giving it a try. She's done a few of them, and said it is the best workout she'd ever done. The instructor helped me setup my bike, and I talked to several people in the class beforehand who were so nice. After the class was over they all told me how well I did. I sure didn't feel like it! But I was dripping so that must be good. I'm going to have to keep it up - now that I know what to expect, I can start working on building the resistance and pushing myself further. Oy vey...

Tonight Trey starts his summer bowling league. I'm SUPER excited for him. It's been since we lived in Austin that he's been on one, and he really enjoyed it then. I'm really glad he is going to have an outlet for something he enjoys that is NOT work. Hopefully he'll make some new friends, and just have a good time. I'm even going to go watch him some like I used to - it'll be fun. But not this week, because...

I have to get more episodes of Army Wives in before season 3 starts on Sunday. I've been watching season 2 online - they just released it this past weekend, and I only have a week to get all 19 episodes in. It's so good - it's not that hard to do. I've watched 2 -3 episodes each night this week. I'm so tired, though. I've been up until at least 1:00 am every night watching! But I can't stop.

Madelyn's 1st Grade Awards

2009-06-02T12:23:00.000-07:00

I'm sure you all are wondering, yet again, where I have been. All I can say is that I've just been busy. I know - no excuse. But I just simply let time slip away. I'm really going to try to stay more on top of this. I start to feel like too much time has gone by and I have so much to say, so I wait until I have time to sit down and really write a lot, but that time never comes! So instead, I'm going to really try to write more often - even if they are small posts.

Today was a neat day. Madelyn had her 1st grade award ceremony this morning. She was so excited in anticipation. The last day of school is tomorrow and she is itching to get her summer vacation started. This morning I woke up really (REALLY) early so that I could be at her school in time for the ceremony. It was a long drive, but let me tell you when I saw the look on her face and how excited she was, it was totally worth it. They gave awards for perfect attendance, all A's for the year, and Honor Roll A's and B's. Not every child received an award, but I am so proud to say that our girl did! She got an award for Honor Roll - all A's and B's. I couldn't be more proud of her! Jennifer took pictures and will send them to me - I'll post her beaming face as soon as I get them.

It just breaks my heart to be so far away from her. As Trey and I were trying to work out the details to be there (and it killed him to not be there), it just made me so sad that we can't be more involved and be there for every thing she does. She is so lucky to have such a loving, committed family on ALL sides, and I know that she feels supported and loved, but it's still hard to not be RIGHT there.

Here we go... just look at that smile!

My Meemaw

2009-04-19T14:35:00.001-07:00

This weekend marked 2 years since Meemaw passed away. I can't believe it has been 2 years. It has flown by, and gone so slow all at the same time. So much has happened in the past 2 years, and yet it seems like just yesterday that she was sitting at the table doing a crossword puzzle, or making us all laugh so hard I thought we'd pee in out pants.

Regardless of how much time goes by, some things will always stay the same. Like the smile I get on my face when I remember our girls trips, or weekends together as a family. Or the laughter that erupts when someone says or does something that makes me think - that is sooo Meemaw (and let me tell you there are plenty of people that are saying and doing so many things just like her)!

It makes me incredibly sad to think that I wish I'd had more time with her, or made the time we had together more meaningful and more frequent. It makes me sad when I think that I'll never again have the opportunity to call her, and then roll my eyes as I sit on the other end of the phone saying... uh huh, yeah, i know ... while she goes on and on. It makes me sad that I'll never again see the smile on her face when she is watching our family just be together.

It makes me incredibly happy to remember the great times we did have together, and to know that she knew just how much we all loved and respected her (even if we didn't show it all the time). And it makes me happy to know that in each of our every day lives, we strive to live up to her memory, and her very high expectations of all of us, and that most of the time, I think we do. And it makes me very happy to think of her, somewhere, somehow, smiling down on all of us and the strong, united family we remain, the family that she cherished.

So, 2 years later, I hope I am achieving my goal... to make her proud and live up to her example.

I love you Meemaw, and miss you tremendously!

Accomplishments

2009-04-10T16:21:00.000-07:00

This week and weekend is the time for accomplishments. Not for me, mind you... but for others!

Mom had her sleep test Thursday night. It didn't go well (read her blog for details), and she is not happy. But in a way, it did go well, because the end result is that they said she does have a severe sleeping problem. The good thing is that maybe, just maybe (fingers crossed) this is the reason for her not feeling well lately. So if determining the problem is the hardest part, then she is on her way to feeling better. And she so needs that! I know the last few months have been very trying on her, and I am so proud of her. At the end of the day, I know she will get through it all just fine. But in the meantime, I know it doesn't it always feel that way.

Trey left last night and headed to Blanco for a weekend of building. He and Grandad (and as it turns out Grammy too - what a trooper) are building Madelyn's bunkbed this weekend. When I talked to Trey at 4:30 this afternoon, they'd already gotten all of the materials, cut and framed the top bunk, the desk, and were working on the steps. WOW - I am super impressed at their progress in one day. Trey never ceases to amaze and wow me... I can't wait to see the finished product. Don't worry - I'll take lots of pictures and post them for all to see.

On his way to Blanco, Trey stopped off and got to take Madelyn to dinner, and see her new house. They had a wonderful time... went to Luby's (Madelyn's choice - since she and Trey love it, and I DO NOT), went to see Madelyn's new school (where she'll be next year - very close to their house), played on the playground a little bit, and just got to spend some good Daddy - Puds time. They both loved it, and I am a little jealous that I missed it!!

Work this week was crazy busy, but it's the weekend now, and I am so looking forward to hanging out and not doing much. Although the cleaning supplies in our house are calling my name - I'm just not sure I'm going to answer. Man, I wish I could find a housekeeper that could come once every 2 weeks or once a month... I would even consider giving up some of my starbucks to pay for it!

2009-03-24T20:31:00.001-07:00

My mom ROCKS. She is the most patient, determined, amazing woman I know. She manages to find grace and strength in even the most trying of situations. I have the utmost respect for her - as a mother, and as a person. She finds energy and ambition when I don't think I could. I so admire her courage. She is a constant reminder to me that nothing is impossible, and to never settle for less than all that you deserve.

And right now, she is feeling frustrated and overwhelmed with obstacles to trying to feel better and being healthy. But I know she can do it - whatever "it" may be. Because I know she has more strength and resolve than she is giving herself credit for, and I know this too shall pass. And in the meantime, ILYMTYLMxI.

Disappointed

2009-03-24T20:30:00.000-07:00

Finally, April and I watched Twilight. What a disappointment. I don't think the movie at all lived up to the book. What a bummer.

It was a crazy weekend...

2009-03-24T15:38:00.000-07:00

Wow - where does the time go. I thought I'd just gotten all caught up on my blogging (well - sort of the Cliff's Notes version of caught up), and then I look and it's been a week since I posted. I just can't keep up.

This past weekend Trey and I went to Houston for a visit. We got to see Allan and Megan's new house - it is really beautiful. I'm so excited for them. Trey spent all day Saturday (and I do mean ALL day) building a pump house for them, and hanging with Allan. You can look at mom's blog for pics - I don't have them. But it's really cool. It's huge - there is enough room for Mia to have a playhouse if they could block off the pump. Or, as everyone also pointed out - it's a great space for Allan when he misbehaves. There is enough room to put an cot or airmattress for it to be his "doghouse". He didn't think that was too funny. Although he said that was okay since if he was sent out there he could turn off the water to the house.

Mom and I went to step class in the morning and then headed to see the house and pick up Mia. We took her with us for the day. I can't even tell you the smile it put on my face when I walked in the door and Mia came running to give me a hug. Of course it helps that I don't go to see her without a surprise. She was precious. We went to mom's to shower and play a little and then met Aunt Jo and the boys for a late lunch (they were in town for a Bat Mitzvah). It was tons of fun. Mia was so adorable. I told Megan - she was soooo good, and soooo bad. And let me tell you she covered both ends of the spectrum and everything in between. All in all, though, I mostly just laughed and had a great time with her. Mia is really in to closing doors. So she was hanging out in her new room, and I opened the door to see her. She pointed her finger and told me to "get out". So I did. And then I thought I heard her calling me so I went back opened the door, and she told me again "get out" and literally shut the door in my face. So mom went to the door and knocked, and she heard this little voice say "who is it". So after she giggled, mom said "it's Bubbe", and she heard, "shoot... just a minute... come in". It was so hilarious - I was laughing so hard I think I was about to cry. So then we were at Denny's, and Trey wanted a bite of Mia's cheeseburger so he asked her - "Mia, can I have a bite?". She looked him straight in the eye and said no. Then when he asked again, she said "not yet.". We must have asked her 10 more times and every time, she said, "not yet". So finally we distracted her so he could steal a bite. She was way in to Uncle Trey on this trip. When we left Saturday night she gave him big hugs and kisses and when I asked for a kiss she said no! I'm telling you that kid is a monster and I just love it.

So Sunday morning mom and I woke up and went to step class. We hung out a little around the house, went to a late lunch, and then it was time to head home. By the time Trey and I made it home, it was after 9:00. And I had stuff to do - I had to watch Brothers and Sisters, and HELLO - it was the season finale of Big Love!!!!

I'm here

2009-03-17T19:44:00.000-07:00

Yeah, yeah, yeah... I know... Where the heck have I been.

The answer to that is both long and short. I've been busy. And I haven't really felt like I had the time to keep everything up to date on here. But I've thought about it. Does that count? You know - there comes a point where you have to prioritize, and you have to make choices. And I've chosen to clean my house (okay not really - my "housekeeper" does that for me -thanks April!). But I've had to help. And trying to reorganize some, de-clutter, and all around get things settled. It amazes me how much stuff I can accumulate, even after I do so much to get rid. Where does this stuff all come from??

Work has been crazy, but these days I suppose I am just happy to have work to do. It's been busy, and hectic. Lots of change, lots of uncertainty. But good. I can't ask for much more than that. I still work with great people, and we're just getting through tough times like everyone else.

I had an interesting experience a few weeks ago. I had jury duty for the first time ever. Wouldn't you know the first time I ever get a jury summons, I got picked. The defendent actually plead guilty, so we only had to do the punishment phase. It was a really difficult case, I have to say. I'm glad that I was a part of it - a learning experience for sure, and sparked a whole new perspective on our judicial system in me for sure. It was actually 2 separate cases that ran simoultaneously - one an intoxicated assault charge, and one intoxicated manslaughter. The gist... a young guy (about age 24) was involved in a car accident on New Years Eve, a year ago. In the accident, another man who was driving a 18 wheeler was struck, and in the course of the accident, died. It was much more detailed and graphic than that, but you get the idea. It was horribly sad - for all those involved. The guy who caused the accident was clearly a changed person from this, and it was just tragic for everyone. I thought a lot about it in the several days after, and since. I am just so grateful to have never had to experience something like that. It just goes to show you that people make mistakes, and that doesn't make them bad people. But they also have to live with the consequences.

Trey has been extremely busy - which is a great thing. He's been working weekends, and some nights during the week like crazy. He absolutely loves it, but I can also tell that it's taking it's toll on him. It's just hard on when there is no break. But I am so proud of how hard he is working to build up his "hobby" and turn it into a full business opportunity.

Madelyn just finished her Spring break, and spent most of it moving into her new house (her mom and stepdad just bought a new house), and unpacking. She is so excited about her new home, the big backyard with a fence for her dogs to run and play, lots of friends in her neighborhood (some she already had and some new ones she has already made - apparently her neighbors have a trampoline, so you can guess it took her no time to make friends with them!). She got all of her room unpacked, and she's settled. I know her mom wishes she was all settled too - she'll get there. Everyone is super excited about Trey's newest project. He and grandad are building Madelyn bunkbeds! Shh - it's a surprise, so don't say anything!!!! Madelyn's mom and stepdad were going to buy her bunkbeds - with stairs, a desk, and all - that Madelyn has been wanting for a long time. Well, Trey took one look at the picture, and said - I can do that. So now he and grandad have assumed this new project, and they are so excited.

April is in her last year of school - I can't believe it. This time next year, she'll be back in the "real" world. With only about 10 months left to go - it's all creeping up too fast, and I don't like it. The time has really flown by, and I don't like the idea of her wanting to get a full time job, and her own place to live. I don't like it all, and when it's brought up, I refuse to discuss it. And on that note - I'm not discussing it anymore.

Are you ready for this one... Jackie and Dani are driving! It's so scary. Not that they're driving (though that is a little scary too), but that they are old enough to be driving. I sometimes still think of them as my little babies - and they so are not. They are really beautiful young women, and I am so proud of them. I know - I sound like a grandmother, but in honor of my Meemaw, I'll take care of them from that point of view. And speaking of Meemaw, I also can't believe that this month will be 2 years that she's no longer with us. I miss her every day. I never really knew how much I would miss her. It's not like we talked every day, or like I saw her on a weekly basis. But I do now think of her every day, and miss her, and hope that I'm doing what my goal has been since she died... live up to her expectations.

Well, I would update you on my mom, but really it's soooo much easier to just say - read her blog. She is much better than I am at maintaining - she updated just about every day! And I would update you on Mia, but that too is better served by reading mom's blog. I will say, though - that she is growing by leaps and bounds!! She is truly a bundle of energy, and love, and attitude. And when I say a LOT of attitude, I am not exaggerating. That kid has more sassy in her than I ever thought would be possible. And stubborn (wonder where she gets that from?!). And every bit of adorable, huggable, laughable joy that is humanly possible. I am super excited that I will get to see her this weekend. I better go out and get some surprises - Aunt Rarah doesn't come without surprises (and now she tells me so!).

Allan and Megan just closed on their new house, and moved in. I can't wait to see it this weekend. I'm very excited for them. And after I see the house I can get an idea of a housewarming gift.

Okay - so that's about all I have in me for now. Off to bed I go... I'm tired now!

The weekend is already over

2009-02-08T15:49:00.001-08:00

Another weekend has come and gone. So sad...

We didn't do much of anything this weekend. Trey spent all day yesterday working. Although he really enjoys building and doing projects as he works on growing his side (and future) business, I know it also makes him sad and disappointed to not be spending the time with Madelyn and I. So today, we had a family day. After the gym this morning, he, Mads and I went for brunch and to go ride go carts (Madelyn's choice). I tried to convince her to pick out a new Wii game instead, but she didn't go for it. She was adorable I do have to say driving her own go cart. And she's a really good driver - except that she kept stopping to fix her jewelery... that's my girl!

Yesterday Mads, April and I went to the gym in the morning, and then did a few errands during the day. Other than that, we just hung around at home.

It was a nice, relaxed weekend. I'm just so bummed it's already over.

Mom seems to have had a nice time with Mia this weekend. If you haven't seen her blog lately - check it out. She's way better than me at keeping it updated, and you've just got to see the pics she posted of the Mia. She is such a little princess. Check out her high heels!

25 Random Things About ME

2009-02-05T19:20:00.001-08:00

1. I’m very lucky… I’m married to a wonderful husband, who loves, adores and spoils me. He is the best snuggler, comforter, and companion. He’s seen me at my worst and best, and loved me fully through it all. I don’t believe that any person is perfect, but he is perfect for me.

2. My family is the most important thing in my life. All of my family. We are very close and nothing comes between us. We celebrate holidays and everydays together, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

3. I learned at a pretty early age the importance of respect. You have to give it to get it. And those who don’t give it aren’t worth it – no matter who they are. One day, I think my father will wake up and realize this. I think then he’ll also learn the true meaning of regret. And if he never does then I guess it’s his loss.

4. My mom is my best friend, and has been for as long as I can remember. She has taught me the true meaning of unconditional love, and I have the utmost respect for her. My biggest fear is that I won’t live up to her expectations, and that I won’t be half the mother she is to me.

5. I am so proud to be Madelyn’s step-mom. She makes me smile. Being her step-mom is one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, and at the same time one of my greatest challenges. Sometime I cry for fear that I don’t live up, but I’ll always try my best to be the best for her – she deserves it.

6. I have a new found fascination with eating healthy (Yeah Weight Watchers) and working out. I LOVE my aerobics classes, and I HATE anything to interfere with their schedule. I love cooking new healthy recipes, and I’m fab at counting points. It’s been a great reality check after a tough year. Now I didn’t say I gave up all the good, but not good stuff. I still enjoy a great meal out and have to have my sweets. But I’ve learned a lot about moderation and balance. Sometimes I lose the motivation to keep it up, but it always comes back.

7. I’ve never been a person to have a lot of friends. And I’ve always been okay with that. Because instead I have a few amazing friends. You know who you are – and I’m so thankful for you everyday.

8. My brother and I aren’t as close as I’d like us to be, but I absolutely adore and love him – even when he drives me crazy. And since he’s given me a wonderful sister-in-law, and the most beautiful, bright (and stubborn – not sure where she gets that from) niece, Mia, he has an even more special place in my heart. Not that he didn’t already.

9. So many people complain about their in-laws. I’m very fortunate, because I have nothing to complain about. They’ve become an extension of my own family. My mother and father in law are rocks, and I so admire them. My sister-in-law, April is one of my very best friends – I don’t know what I would do without her. She keeps me sane and happy. We laugh together, talk constantly, and can finish each other’s sentences and thoughts. She’s an inspiration to me, and she keeps me motivated (see # 6).

10. I have been diagnosed with Lupus. It’s been a challenging year and half learning to deal with this. I’ve learned a great deal about myself, what my body can handle, and what it can’t anymore. Learning to live with Lupus has been a roller coaster that I hate to say, I don’t think is over yet. But again, I say I am lucky. I have been surrounded by fabulous support – from family and friends to phenomenal doctors. It’s a great feeling.

11. I miss my Meemaw (grandmother). It’s been almost 2 years since she died, and I think of her every day. Some of my fondest memories are of times we spent together. And there a ton of memories, because she was there for it all. She didn’t miss a thing. The heart remembers…

12. I graduated from the University of Texas in Austin, with a BS in Communication Studies. Hook Em’ Horns! I think it’s ironic how when you’re in school all you can think of is being out. And when you’re out, you yearn to go back.

13. I truly enjoy my job. I work with great people, I have a sense of accomplishment with what I do, and I like being there (almost) every day.

14. I am not a morning person. I don’t like to be talked to, touched, or involved in any way with anyone for at least an hour after I wake up.

15. I’m Jewish. I like that I come from such a rich (not money) and spiritual culture. I wish I was more involved with my religion. I don’t like that there are more questions about Judaism that I can’t answer than I can. But when all else fails, at least I know where to go to find out. My husband converted to Judaism about 4 years ago. It was an amazing experience for me to be a part of.

16. I love Dogs, I do NOT like Cats. I can’t really explain it – I’ve just always felt this way. Dogs win me over. Especially cute, fluffy, cuddly ones. Cats do nothing for me.

17. I don’t drink alcohol or do drugs. Now I didn’t say I never have. I’m a realist, and I think that experimenting is a natural part of life. My only expectation is that it’s done in a responsible and safe way. When Jackie and Dani or Madelyn are ready to try things, I hope they’ll come to me so that I can help them understand how to experience life smartly.

18. I believe that it takes all kind of people to make this world go round. While I wish everyone were noble, and kind, I know that is not the reality. I recognize that it takes the good and bad to make us who we are. And even though we may wish away the bad or uncharismatic pieces of us, they are a part of who we are, and who we become. I believe that life is complex and difficult, but beautiful and sacred.

19. I tend to live in the gray areas in life, which can make things a challenge with my black and white husband. But we find a way to make it work, and it keeps things interesting.

20. I’m up for a challenge, but can also appreciate things to be easy sometimes too. This very concept is my biggest fear about being a parent. It’s so difficult to find that very fine balance between giving your child(ren) all that you want them to have and you think they deserve, but also teaching them how to work hard for it, and not just giving it all to them. My mom perfected this balance, and I don’t know how she did it. I find it to be one of the most difficult things I’ve ever encountered in my life.

21. I think one of the most unfortunate things in life is that Madelyn will never know what it is like to – by herself – ride her bike to pool during the summer, walk a few blocks to her friends house to play, or lay in the grass in the front yard seeing what images the clouds make. It’s a very scary world, and it really bothers me that these simple things done by herself will never be something I feel it is safe for her to experience.

22. My absolute favorite holiday is Thanksgiving. I love the food, and the way my family celebrates it – casual with everyone cooking, eating, laughing, and just being together.

23. Some of the things that make my world go round … Starbucks, manicures and pedicures, having a new car, the smell of vanilla scented candles and air fresheners, reading all kinds of books from great girlie books to fiction to sudoku to a cookbook, going to the movies, lazy days at home (I’m a true homebody), going on vacation (who doesn’t love that), Starbucks (I know I already said it, but it deserves a second mention), seeing my niece grow and change by leaps and bounds, feeling appreciated, being organized, having a clean house, my Flintstones gummy daily vitamins (my doc says 2 of those are just as good any adult vitamins – and they taste just like gummy bears – it’s so hard to just eat the recommended dose), seeing Jackie and Dani grow into beautiful, charming young ladies… oh I could go on for hours.

24. I met my husband by being on a bowling league. If you know me you know how funny this is. I can’t bowl well (Trey would say at all), and it’s so uncharacteristic of me. It’s the perfect example of why I believe things happen for a reason.

25. My goal in life is to make those around me, who love me, proud. To carry on my Meemaw’s legacy of family and love and laughter. Lots of laughter. And to be happy – because if you’re not happy, what else is there?

So, that's me...

2009-02-02T11:55:00.001-08:00

How nice it was to walk in this morning to see these beautiful roses. And they opened up so nicely over the weekend. Put another huge smile on my face!

Flowers

2009-01-30T19:59:00.000-08:00

I consider myself a pretty lucky person.

I have a great job that I enjoy. I am in relatively good health, and getting better every day. I have a handful of really fabulous friends, and my entire family is truly wonderful. I am blessed to be Madelyn's step-mother and so proud that I get the privilege of being a part of her life. And have you seen how precious and adorable my niece, Mia, is?!

And it doesn't stop there. Because as if that all wasn't enough, I get to be married to a man who loves and adores me, in spite of my quirks and annoyances, and often because of them. I am so grateful for my husband. I can't even begin to put into words the feelings of knowing that someone will so unconditionally love you, and always be there - through the good and the bad. Trey has certainly proven that over and over again in the past year and half (not that it needed proving).

Well, today, he showed yet again just how much he loves me. Saying I love you is never difficult for us - we say it all the time. But today, Trey let his actions speak louder than words. Today, I received at work a beautiful bouquet of a dozen long stem red roses, delivered to my office. You should have seen the smile across my face. I was so surprised and completely touched. And the card simply read... "To my sweetheart, I was thinking about you and thought you would enjoy these. I love you."

Now the thing that makes this gesture so funny and ironic is that Trey and I have had a couple of conversations about flowers. I've always said I don't understand the point of sending flowers - they just die in a few days and it's such a waste of money. And I do truly believe this... to a degree. Then in a conversation about flowers, I said to Trey - what girl doesn't like to get flowers. I know - talk about mixed messages. But as just another reminder that Trey is so right for me - he read me loud and clear and completely understood me... I don't want flowers on Valentine's Day when your "supposed" to send them, or our anniversary, when one would "expect" them. It means so much more when it's a random day - a meaningless, yet now meaningful moment. And that's why receiving these gorgeous flowers today meant the world to me - because it was just his way of expressing how much he loves me on just another day - on every day!

I promise to post a picture next week - they're still at the office for a few more days of enjoyment there before I bring them home.

HO, HO, HO!

2008-12-31T14:13:00.001-08:00

We celebrated Christmas in our usual, Jew fashion... food and movies!!!

Last year started the Gourley-Glazer tradition of IHOP for breakfast / brunch, followed by going to a movie. It's what Jews do best on this holiday! And what else is there to do anyway - everything is closed. So, we got up leisurely on Thursday morning, showered, and met the Glazer bunch at IHOP.

It was CROWDED!! Luckily we didn't have too much of a wait, but the place was packed. (I don't understand - isn't Christmas supposed to be a stay at home with the family holiday?) They were so busy that our waiter ended up being the manager. He was quite a character - very odd, but nice and attentive. So we got our tummy's nice and full and then headed to the movie theater to see Marley and Me.

Again... it was packed. I guess everyone woke up early, opened their presents, had their family time, and had enough! The movie was really cute, happy and sad, and sweet. A good choice for a family flick.

Once the movie was over, April and I were in dire need of a Starbucks fix. And since they seem to be the only one's open besides Ihop, movies theaters, and chinese restaurants, we headed to our local Starbucks. Oh no - they were closed! Okay, not a problem. There is another one up the street... Closed. This is not a good thing! Okay, one more try. There is another one just a few blocks away... We could see the building... I don't know - they don't look open... It's dark inside... But there are cars in the parking lot... But there is a Panda Express so the cars could be for there... Wait a minute... Did you just see someone walk out of the Starbucks... YES - I think so... Hey that guy has a Starbucks cup... Pull in, Pull in!! Just in the nick of time - it was 3:15 and they were closing at 4:00 (what's the big deal anyway - it's just Christmas!) But we made it, and we were oh so happy!!! But bummer... across the street we hoped to see Walmart open - no such luck.

So next up, we headed home to do what... watch more movies! This time, on our big flatscreen TV (details to come in my upcoming Black Friday blog). We rented movies the day before, and finally saw the Dark Knight. I thought it was really good, Trey wasn't so impressed. It was really nice to relax, and do basically nothing. We cooked dinner, stayed in the whole night, and just hung out. Such a good way to spend the day... before it was back to the real world.

Way to go April

2008-12-30T07:14:00.001-08:00

I know I am way behind in my blogging. April has been done with the Fall semester for weeks now, and all of the great information she got from those classes has been emptied from her brain and replaced with cheesy romance novels and mindless reading (okay not really cheesy romance, but teeny vampire stories [hello - Twilight] - yes). So even though I'm overdue, I have to take a moment to say WAY TO GO!

Yet another semester behind her, and yet another PERFECT 4.0 GPA!!! You have to know April to really appreciate this. First of all, she works her butt off to stay on top on her classes, tests, grades, etc. She gets super stressed out about it all, and just when she thinks - screw it, a B isn't so bad - she throws herself back into mode and pushed to the A. Anyway, I'm so proud of her (I know... I sound like I'm her mother), but I am. And I'm so happy that her hard work paid off.

Wow, these last 2 years have flown by, and this time next year, she will have walked "the walk", and have her hard earned diploma to show for it all! The downside... I think she may try to move out!! So sad...

a brief update... with a promise for more

2008-12-27T20:10:00.000-08:00

Well, well, well... look who's back! I know you all think I've fallen off the face of the planet. And rightfully so. I was starting to wonder myself. Things have been really crazy with the holidays, trips to see family, work, and life. I know - what kind of excuse is that? But as my mom famously likes to say - it is what it is. So I know I have tons to catch up on. Since my last post, I've had a birthday (one more year in my twenties!), we celebrated Thanksgiving (my absolute favorite holiday and a blog topic all of it's own still to come), survived Black Friday (and we have pictures to prove we were there!), visited Blanco (twice), celebrated Hanukkah and Christmas, celebrated Mia's 2nd birthday (that kid is A-D-O-R-A-B-L-E!!)... phew, I'm exhausted just trying to remember it all!

Well, there have been lots of things happening, but I can't get all in to one update. So I'll start with some of the biggies, and then I PROMISE, I will update with the latest happenings and goings.

Medical Updates:
- Mom is doing much better. You know that she had gallbladder surgery a while back. While she has some adjusting to do, she is feeling much better and is getting used to what her stomach can and can't handle. This wasn't, however, the end of her problems. She's continued to have tests after tests to no avail. Just before Thanksgiving, I flew into Houston to take her to the latest and greatest one - an endoscope sort of, but more in depth than the typical one. They put her out, stick a scope to look all through her insides to determine where bleeding is coming from and what needs to be done to fix it. This, mind you, is after the camera test (she swallowed a pill that is a camera that is supposed to travel throughout her insides taking video feed - creepy and amazing at the same time). Well anyway, after the camera test (which is supposed to be the end all to getting answers, and the endoscope (even more so the end all to getting answers), the doctor call me in to say that they didn't find anything that seemed to be a problem. Well this sounds like good news, and in a way it is, but in a big way it also was not. She is so tired of just not knowing what is going on and what she needs to do to be better. So she talked with her primary doctor (the one that did this last test is a rare specialist who she didn't particularly care for, but is one of very few in all of Houston that performs this test), and it was determined that since everything that is of real concern has been ruled out, she needs to wait it out and should get better with some time. I suppose this is good news - meaning that it's nothing serious enough to identify and need a remedy, but it's also a bit scary. So now we're waiting, and hoping for a little bit of time to do the trick.+
- I continue to do really well with my Lupus diagnosis. We've still had some ups and downs, and I've had to go back up slightly on the Prednisone, but still at a manageable, relatively small dose. I've been feeling pretty consistently well, and again am grateful to have great doctors, and phenomenal family and friends who check in on me, support me, and are constant rocks in an uncertain world. But, you know how I like to rock the boat, and these last few months were no exception. I went for my annual woman checkup at the end of October, and my test results returned some abnormality. Not very uncommon, and something I've had before. It just requires a minor in office procedure to determine if the abnormality is precancerous or of no concern, and my doctor expected a completely insignificant result. Unfortunately, the biopsy resulted in a little more concern than expected, and I had to have a second procedure done, just after Thanksgiving. Again, in office, and still very minor. All in all it took less than an hour. It's called a L.E.E.P procedure, and reading about it online was very interesting. It's actually a procedure that produces and electrical shock through your body that causes the cells to burst, and the doctor cuts a small portion of the uterus where the abnormal cells lie to get out any precancer cells. It's not even painful, but there was a very strange sensation from the electricity that goes through your body. Anyway, the biopsy results came back normal, showing that she got all of the problem cells out before they became a problem - yay! So that was my latest and greatest - I wouldn't even call a scare, but more of a nuisance. April was fantastic - taking me to my appt, and even going in with me so that another set of ears could take in what the doctor had to say (I'm so bad about remembering that stuff!) and that wasn't easy, but she toughed it out for me!!

So, all in all, we're all hanging in just fine and are happy to have made it to another New Year, though we sometimes wondered if we would. Hope everyone has had a wonderful, peaceful, happy holiday (whatever you celebrate), and have an even better New Year!

MIA

2008-11-19T07:10:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago mom took Mia to a great park in Houston to take some pictures. We now have a new photographer in the family - she did such a great job, and just like the Princess she is, Mia posed and smiled and "cheesed" like a pro! Here are a few of my favorites, but when I say there are a TON to chose from, I'm not kidding. Friday I'm going to print some and get a great collage frame to put up in the hallway with my favs.

Happy (almost) Birthday to ME

2008-11-16T16:55:00.000-08:00

Let me tell you why I have such an amazing husband.

This weekend, while Trey was doing what he does best, I did what I do best.... For those of you who know us, you probably already know what those two things are. For Trey, it means a few trips to Home Depot and building something. For me, it means shopping.

So while Trey was working extremely hard on a project building new stairs for a client, making some extra money for our family, I was out spending it! Now I have to say that I think “spending” tends to come in waves. At least it does for me. I can go a very good while not really spending leisure money. Of course, there’s always groceries and necessities, but I’m talking about the extras. That being said, I also have to point out that when I shop for things like clothes, shoes, etc., I can get quite a bit for half the cost of one of Trey’s leisure spends. (He’ll be the first to admit that he tends to go for the big ticket items – it’s just in his nature – he doesn’t know how to do things small!) Well, I have to admit that lately my shopping has been a bit of a too regular habit. In my defense (and much to my pleasure), a great deal of it has been more of necessity and not so much want. As I’ve been working towards losing the weight that I gained in the last year, I’ve found a need for new clothes. And luckily, there have been some great deals to be had out there. But just as Trey knows only big ticket items, I seem to only know big quantity. And so back to my point that, at least for me, spending and shopping seems to go in waves and I’ve been on a pretty big wave this last month.

So all weekend, Trey was working. And today, among errands, April and I found our way to the mall. We’ve both been “needing” (and by needing I mean wanting) a good new handbag. Well of course, we found just what we were looking for. After much debating (and I am talking MUCH debating), we both decided to make the purchase. Immediately (before we were even out of the parking lot), we were discussing, debating, and deciding. Not with much luck either. As soon as one of would talk the other or ourself into taking it back, we’d starting talking the other or ourself into keeping it. We both went back and forth at least 6 times. Once we got home, we put all of our stuff in our new bags and looked at them again… still can’t decide. So I’ve now decided to talk to Trey about it and see what he thinks, but by the time he calls that he’s on his way home (all done with his job!), I’ve pretty much decided that I need to take it back. So Trey is telling me about his project, and the money he made, and I said – Good, because I was bad! He warily asks me what I mean by bad. I told him about the handbag, and that I shouldn’t have spent the money and I think I’m going to take it back. And his response – Happy Birthday Baby – you’re keeping the handbag!

So to my wonderful husband, who knows me so well, thank you… For your heart of gold, your unconditional love, and for letting me pick out my own birthday present (even though we both know I’d already gotten my birthday present)!!

Happy Anniversary

2008-11-10T14:29:00.000-08:00

Last week was a very special occasion... on Thursday Trey and I celebrated our 3rd anniversary. Wow - I can't believe it's been 3 years already. Time really does fly by. We celebrated in our usual fashion. Good Food and Good Company. We went for a really nice dinner (and it was DELICIOUS!!) and spent our time just talking and enjoying each other's company.

It amazes me how much has happened in 3 years, and how the place we are at in our lives is just how I pictured and also not at the same time. We've been through a great deal together and more and more, I am so grateful to have such a supportive, wonderful, loving husband. To think, this time 3 years ago I never would have foreseen the past year of medical saga I've gone through. And although I NEVER would have doubted Trey would be there every step of the way, I don't think I ever imagined the way in which he'd be there for me. He seems to find just the right balance of creating dependence and independence. I know I can lean on him and he'll be there, and I know he'll do anything for me. But at the same time, I can be my own person and find my own strength too.

There are so many things I love about Trey... One of the things that is best about him is how diverse it is. I realize that may sound really silly, but bear with me. The thing about Trey is that he stays interesting. I think this is because he is an expert at covering all sides.

I love the way he takes on projects with such zest and eagerness. And yet it's also what wears me out since I have to hear every detail of every project even though most of what he is saying makes no sense and has no meaning for me.

I love his complete meticulousness. (I know this needs no elaboration since you know Trey too!) He is the only other person in this world who keeps a closet the way I do. He measures everything to the exact right spot, and when he does something it is to perfection. Sometimes this means it takes longer than I'd like, but he always gets it done right! I love the way everything has a place with him. I just wish that the place wasn't sitting on the floor in the middle of the room or on the counter out in the open! But marriage is about compromise, right?!

And I even love the way he teases me (though sometimes I wish he'd move on!!).

I love the way he regards "my" family as his own (as I do "his" is mine!). I love the wonderful father he is to Madelyn. I love the amount of respect he has for those who earn it. He doesn't give his respect easily, but once he does, you know it is meaningful.

And Trey can make me laugh like no one else can. Sometime I'm laughing because he's funny, and sometimes I'm laughing at him because he thinks he's funny. But regardless, we laugh. And that is so important.

So 3 years later, I'm reminded how lucky I am. I'm married to the person that is as perfect for me as can be. He understands me, and tolerates me, and loves me unconditionally. And what more could I ask for?!

Trick or Treat

2008-11-05T07:12:00.000-08:00

Halloween has once again come and gone. But this year was really exciting because Madelyn was in Dallas for trick or treating. So, we got her a little early on Friday in an effort to get home at a decent time, scarf down sandwiches for dinner, and get into costume.

She was the most beautiful SPIDERWITCH I've ever seen. We got her costume a while ago. And last week, I called her to determine what kind of make-up and accessories I needed to get. So I asked her, do you want to be a "pretty" spiderwitch, or a "scary" spiderwitch, and she said - "what do you think I should be"? So we discussed her options and what we could do for each, and she decided... "I want to be a pretty spiderwitch because that would be more delightful"!!! I'm telling you - she just cracks me up.

So I bought some bold blue eye shadow, and we curled her hair. Jennifer sent some fabulous long spider web designed fingernails, so we glued fake nails on her. Yes - I said that right... glued. They came with nail glue (no more of those little sticky tabs that never worked when I was a kid). Well, Madelyn ROCKED her costume. She looked really great!

So, we set out for trick or treating. It wasn't an easy task. First, April's camera batteries kept dying, so back in the house we went for more (you know we have to get some good pictures!). Then, we got a few houses down, and Trey said - oops, I should have brought my flashlight, so back to the house we went. But finally, we set down our street ready to get some candy. As we walked, we became increasingly disappointed. For every house that was "open", there was 4 - 5 houses that didn't have their lights on. There weren't very many people out. I guess our neighborhood just doesn't have a ton of kids. All in all, we spent about an hour or so trick or treating (and walked about 1 1/2 miles - makes up a little for the candy!). But the good thing is that Madelyn could have cared less... she got tons of candy and really had a great time! And there were a few houses that people really got into it so that was fun.

While we were out, we left a bowl of candy on the porch for trick or treaters - fully expecting that the first group to come by would clean us out. When we got home, the bowl was still practically full!! We were shocked.

So now that we were home, it was time to wash off all that makeup and get ready for bed - we were all exhausted. Silly me, I thought surely Madelyn's nails would be low impact glue since they are for kids. Well, it wasn't. We couldn't get her nails off!!! And let me tell you - she was completely helpless with them. Things like getting undressed, brushing her teeth, going potty - all needed help!!! It was really funny. So the next day, we got acetone nail polish remover, and Madelyn went to "Daddy's Nail Salon", where she soaked her fingers and Trey nudged each nail off. HILARIOUS!! (Then, of course, we had to go to the "real" nail salon to get mani's and pedi's.) But before Saturday when Trey got her nails off, April managed to capture this moment...

Here's a few others... Check out the great pumpkin that Trey carved for Madelyn.

Planner of the Year

2008-10-25T12:39:00.000-07:00

Last week had a very exciting event for me. Mom’s surgery was scheduled for Thursday, so I told everyone at work that I would be off on Thursday and Friday to go be with her. Several hours later, I get a notice for a planning meeting from our Exec VP – Mandatory. Oh great, I thought. So I talked to my boss, who tried to get it moved to another day with no success. So I talked to mom, who had already said Allan would take her and we worked out a plan – I’d leave immediately after my meeting and be in Houston by the afternoon. I hated not being there for her actual surgery, but I thought – this will work fine. So now Thursday rolls around, and in the morning we had our company annual merchant recognition awards, to be followed by my meeting (or so I thought). I had all of my materials ready for the meeting - stayed late the night before, (missing my step class), to be sure I was organized and ready so I could jet out right after. We headed down for the merchant awards… First was the “star awards” – recognizing those offices that achieved their spring season and annual plans. Next up was Assistant Buyers of the Year – one from each division. WOOHOO – Alex was awarded… so well deserved!! Next up came “risk takers” awards – several winners from across the company. Then came the announcement of the Merchandise Planner of the year…

Here is the script given by our Exec VP of Planning:
This award was established to recognize the merchandise planner who fosters a dynamic business partnership with the merchants, the stores and the vendors. It’s their job to balance inventory and sales…and to maintain profit and stock plan objectives.

The Planner of the Year is versatile with tremendous resolve. She is always in command of the countless circumstances in her division that demand her immediate attention. She spends most of her time analyzing the business to determine what is needed to drive sales. She challenges her team everyday to consider business-maximizing opportunities.

Her constant and consistent communication with the stores has earned her respect at all levels. From Merchandise Mangers to DSA’s to sales staff she is admired and considered a valued member of the team.

She is actively involved in many company committee task forces and test pilots. Additionally, she spends significant time training each new Executive Development class on projections and planning theory. That’s no small achievement!

Please join me in congratulating 2008’s Planner of the Year, Sarah Gourley, Senior Merchandise Planner, St. John! Congratulations Sarah!

I was completely shocked, surprised, and honored to receive this amazing award!! And, the $500 cash, free parking for 1 year, and gorgeous Steuben crystal are a huge bonus as well!

So as you can probably now imagine, I didn’t have a mandatory meeting this morning, but my entire team, and family, had been conniving on a way to make sure I was there! I still smile when I think about how lucky I am to work with such amazing people to recongnize me in such a huge way.

It's been a while...

2008-10-25T12:12:00.000-07:00

Well, it’s been a very long time since I posted – I know. Things have been crazy busy in the last few weeks.

Let’s see… lots of excitement going on.

First of all, to those that may have not known (though I think most of you do), my mom had gallbladder surgery a week ago. She is doing GREAT! Her surgery was Thursday, Oct 16. I went Thursday afternoon to Houston after a “meeting” (I’ll get to that) at work. I was in Houston by late afternoon and spent the weekend with her, trying to take care of her (but you know how stubborn and self sufficient she can be so that wasn’t an easy task!). She was very sore, moving slowly, etc., but in true Carol fashion, she was up and moving and doing really well. By Friday morning, we were at Best Buy (we both got TV’s for our kitchens – more on that later), Walmart where she could drive the cart, and our usual shopping, and running around. You know we just can’t stay in the house for very long. We went to Bed Bath and Beyond and got her a very cool new coffee pot (I want one!). And on Saturday, Allan, Megan, Mia, and Aurelia came over for lunch and to spend the day. We went to Target for more running around (and cart driving for mom), and Megan and I made dinner for everyone. We had a really great time just hanging out. But then Sunday came oh so fast, and it was time for me to head home, unpack from the weekend, and repack for a week in California. So, most importantly here is that mom is doing really well – she went back to work this past Wednesday and eased back into full days. She’s still tired and sore from her surgery, but recovering as she should and will hopefully be feeling better than ever very soon!!!

I’m very excited to now be the proud owner of a flatscreen TV in my kitchen!! When we first moved into the house and had the cable come out to install outlets and cable wiring, I said it was crazy and there is no need for a TV in the kitchen. Boy, was I wrong. When mom said she was getting one in hers, I started to think even more about it. The thing is… I spend A LOT of time in the kitchen, and if you know the layout of our house, there is no access to TV anywhere near. It will be really nice to be able to watch my evening shows or a movie (the TV has a built in DVD player – I know… over the top, but nowadays it’s pretty standard!). The cable people came out on Monday while I was in California, and Trey already has it hung. I’m so excited – I can’t wait to get home and cook!!!

The Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-09T07:56:00.001-07:00

This past weekend, we took Madelyn to a Pumpkin Patch. I had never been, and when April suggested it, I was so excited! Turns out, Trey had never been either, and he was excited too. So Sunday morning, after we went to step class, we came home, showered, ate lunch, and got ready to head out. I have to say, the anticipation was killing me! But before we went, I was sure to put on lots of sunblock, and take an umbrella to stay out of the sun.

So we went to the Owen's Pumpkin Patch in Richardson. It's only about 10 minutes from our house. We got a "deal" on our admission because one of April's friends from school works for Owen's and was working there. Woohoo - we love a good deal.

They had tons of pumpkins set up (great pictures), and rows of pumpkins for you to chose from. We did a hay ride, Madelyn fed goats, etc. Madelyn and Trey picked a HUGE pumpkin to carve for Halloween. All in all, we had a really great time and I glad we went. BUT, I will say, that I'm not good for the next 20 + years! It's just not something I feel the need to do every year.

We did get some good pics...

SECURITY

2008-10-02T14:03:00.000-07:00

A word with so many meanings. And especially these days, it’s not so much about feeling a sense of security, but a lack of. I try to follow all of the things going on in the market and with our economy, but to be honest, I just can’t. First of all, I find it very difficult to understand. And quite frankly, I’m just not willing to put in the time and effort to understand it all. And second, I just can’t chose to follow it all. I could make myself crazy trying to analyze, and get completely frustrated with it all, but what good would it really do. As my mom’s favorite saying goes – it is what it is. So I figure no sense in getting too caught up in it all.

So, dictionary.com gives the following definitions (remember when we used to reference good ole, heavy, hard cover Websters!):

1. freedom from danger, risk, etc.; safety.
2. freedom from care, anxiety, or doubt; well-founded confidence.
3. something that secures or makes safe; protection; defense.
4. freedom from financial cares or from want:
5. precautions taken to guard against crime, attack, sabotage, espionage, etc
6. a department or organization responsible for protection or safety
7. protection or precautions taken against escape; custody
8. an assurance; guarantee.
9. Law. a. something given or deposited as surety for the fulfillment of a promise or an obligation, the payment of a debt, etc.
b. one who becomes surety for another.
10. an evidence of debt or of property, as a bond or a certificate of stock.

So instead of focusing on the lack of security we are all feeling from the current economic situation, I’ll focus on a different kind of security.I have a strong sense of security in my family. There is a tremendous, unexplainable feeling that comes with the security of unconditional love. The kind of love a parent has for a child, or a husband or wife for their spouse. There is a great sense of security that comes with being a part of people’s lives, through thick and thin, and knowing that you will always be there for them, and them for you. There is a strong sense of security in loyalty, commitment, and love – all things that I am so grateful to have being surrounded by amazing family and friends.

LaShana Tova

2008-09-30T16:27:00.000-07:00

LaShana Tova - a happy new year. Last night at sundown marked the beginning of Rosh Hashanah - the Jewish New Year. It's the perfect time for reflection. Reflection on the past year, but also looking forward to a happy, healthy, and rewarding new year.

This time last year, I wasn't partaking in Rosh Hashanah celebrations. Instead I was in the midst of my first hospital stay, and the start of a long, eventful, daunting year. But just like the calendar comes full circle and starts again, I kind of have also.

This year, I am celebrating the joys of this past year, trying to learn from the mistakes, and looking forward to the new opportunities and possibilities that come with a new year. I don't mean to sound to cliche, and I realize that it is truly just another day, but I like to think that with a new year also comes the chance to do better, be stronger, and find success.

This year I am grateful for my family and friends, whose unending support has seen me through a tough year. And I recognize the fact that as difficult as it may have been for me, there are so many people who have it so much worse.

This year, I hope to find more patience and kindness. I hope to be a better wife, daughter, sister, friend. I hope to make the time to be more around for my niece - who is growing by leaps and bounds every day. I hope to make more opportunity to be involved - at temple, with my friends and their lives, with my cousins and their very busy lives and activities. This year I hope to continue my journey for health - not Lupus health (though that would be nice to), but the health that I can affect - my personal health goals of weight loss and fitness. This year, I hope to find compassion and sensitivity to those around me, and make sure that those who matter most know how much I love them.

So LaShana Tova to all - a sweet new year!

HEALTH

2008-09-26T08:32:00.000-07:00

I’ve really loved maintaining my blog, and I love hearing from people that they are reading it and keeping up with me through it. But I’ve also felt at times that I just don’t have anything new to talk about and sometimes even when I come up with something, it’s not so interesting. So in an effort to try to maintain some newness for all of you (and since you know I am so shy about sharing my opinion or thoughts), I’ve decided to try something a little different. I made a list of words – all different kinds and connotations – and when I’m struggling for something new to post about, I’ll just post some thoughts about each word. Ok, so it may be a little cheesy. But it could be kind of interesting, and well, if you don’t like it then don’t read it! But you know you will…

____________________________________________

Health
Health can mean so many different things to different people. To some it is a matter of CHOOSING health. Like eating well and exercising (some of my latest and newest focuses). Maybe health isn’t even given much thought to these people – it’s just a way of their life. Or maybe they have struggled in the past, and they’ve given a great deal of thought – making the choice to be healthy all that more significant. For so long, I was NOT one of these people. I was always a petite person, active without being involved in any particular sports or activities and healthy without having to try. I did things like swimming, bike riding, playing outside – not because I was “being healthy”, but because that was how we had fun. But of course, as I’ve gotten older that balance shifted and I’ve had to learn how to make myself be active through exercise, and develop healthier eating habits. It hasn’t been easy, but very rewarding.

To others, health is not at all a choice – it is decided for you. Some people take it for granted. I WAS one of these people. Until this past year, of course. Being diagnosed with an autoimmune disease has been a very interesting experience for me, for so many reasons. First of all, it reminded me, (I say remind, because it didn’t teach – I already knew), what it means to have support. It’s one thing to know that your family will always be there for you, it’s another thing to feel and live it. When they run, and drive, and fly as quickly as they can to be by your side. When they won’t leave your side (even in you want them to). When they can sense and know that something is wrong, and won’t take no for an answer when you try to kindly refuse help. When they stop their worlds to be all about you and what you need. It’s one thing to think that you have loyal friends, it another thing to have them drop everything to bring you dinner, or check on you, or be so understanding when you’ve been out of touch. It’s one thing to think that you work with nice people, and another to have them cry at your aches and pains, pick up your slack all the while having only concern for you and not the extra hours or workload you created for them, ask you a gazillion questions to be sure you are really feeling fine and not just saying it.

Being sick, for me, has been somewhat of a blessing. That’s not to say I don’t wish I was completely healthy, feeling 100% better, and not worrying that I’ll always have to deal with this. I may always have to deal with this. I may never be able to take my family on a beach vacation because I can’t be in the sun without having a flare up. I may never be able to have a fun filled, energy draining weekend without worrying that I’m overdoing it. I may never be able to go to lunch without having to pull out my pill dispenser. I may never have a slight feeling in my chest without wondering if I’ll have to go back up on the meds, or if fluid has built back up. But I remind myself that I can go on vacations with my family, and so many people can’t. And I can have a fun filled weekend and go places and do things I want, and many people can’t. I can go to lunch with friends, and who cares that I have to be sure to take a couple of pills when I’m done eating. And if I do get a pain in my chest, well then at least I know how to respond and I have a great repertoire of doctors to consult with and to take care of me.

Being sick has been a blessing, because I still get to live, and be relatively normal, and basically do what I want to do. And yet I do know the feeling of wondering “what if”. It makes me so much more appreciative of the life I have. It makes me feel grateful – for family and friends. It makes me feel like I’ve experienced something that makes me stronger. And it’s not like I’ve beat cancer, or cheated death. I’ve not had to experience anything as awful and scary as that. But I do know uncertainty, and what it’s like to be scared, and completely out of control, and then relieved, and basically healthy.

2008-09-24T21:02:00.000-07:00

Have you ever heard...

Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Some stay for awhile and leave footprints on our hearts. And we are never, ever the same.

In my life, I have been so fortunate to have experienced both. I realize that might sound a little odd - considering myself fortunate to have had people who quickly go. But I do believe that is the good and the bad experiences that make us who we are. And because of those people who have not stayed in my life, I am stronger, I am more mature, and I am a better person.

But that is actually getting off track from my original purpose in thinking of this quote. This weekend, I got a call from one my dearest friends. Although I have not known this person for an extremely long time (though sometimes it does feel like forever), there is something about HIM that can bring a smile to my face. Regardless of whatever I am feeling or have going on at that time, his voice makes me smile, and his laugh is contagious. I know if I ever need him he will be there. He is probably the only man that I could have this sort of friendship with without my husband being jealous. Trey just gets it, because Trey knows and adores him too.

And when he recently moved far away, I was really bummed. But somehow I also knew that though distance will make any relationship more challenging, we'd still manage to be friends for the long haul.

So, Mark... I miss you, and I love you! Thanks for leaving a footprint.

The Things a 7 Year Old Can Do...

2008-09-24T20:16:00.001-07:00

Today, Madelyn turned 7 years old. Wow. 7 years old. I can hardly believe it. It makes me thing back on so much that has changed over the years. The things that she couldn't do before and now can do. The so many ways she has grown, and learned so much, and how her personality has continued to form. So, in honor of Princess Madelyn turning 7 years old, I thought was a great time to reflect on the things a 7 year old can do...

A 7 year old can write her own name... beautifully. With scrolly decor, and clean perfectly crafted letters.

A 7 year old can read so many words, and put them together into short sentences.

A 7 year old can spell. She can sound out words. Easy words like walk, cat, car, how, love. Hard words like glass, wonderful, birthday, shelf, letters, catch, when, who, what.

A 7 year old can give herself a shower, being sure to shampoo and conditioner her hair, wash her entire body - head to toe, and still make a little time to play.

A 7 year old can teach me how to play the Wii, can remind me the fun of doing a puzzle, or playing a good old fashion game of Twister, or Monopoly, or Trouble.

And a 7 year old can remind me that it's okay to lose at a game, and it's okay to be happy when you win.

A 7 year old can brush her own teeth for 2 minutes... yet still spend 1 minute and 30 seconds spitting rather than brushing!

A 7 year old can remind me what it was like to play with Barbies and Dolls and use your imagination to make it fill hours of fun. And yet, still manage to be "bored" with a plethora of games and options before her.

And speaking of imagination... A 7 year old can be so smart and inquisitive, and yet be okay with knowing nothing at all sometimes.

A 7 year old can be so excited about what we'd consider the little things... spending the afternoon at the park, getting a goodie from the impulsive checkout section of the grocery store, getting an ice cream on a hot afternoon, getting to go play with her friends, or cousins (human and animal).

A 7 year old can make my day start with a huge smile when she calls to say have a good day at work, and make it end with the same smile when she tells me how was her day at school.

A 7 year old can make my heart hurt when she's not feeling well, or says that she misses me.

A 7 year old can drive me crazy when she asks something for the 5th time in the span of an hour.

A 7 year old can be wise enough to not talk to strangers, and still innocent enough to want to help a person who seems to be in need.

A 7 year old can be glued to the TV, while asking "what are we going to do today?".

A 7 year old is willing to try new things - food, places, people, and yet still say she doesn't like something without ever making an effort.

A 7 year old can be almost as tall as me, and almost wearing the same size shoe, and all too eager to point this out at every opportunity.

A 7 year old can already be finding some of my bad habits... like shopping, and jewelry, and wanting new things.

A 7 year old can be old enough to have a "boyfriend", and young enough to think he has cooties.

A 7 year old can be mature enough to understand that people are less fortunate than we, and still be naive to the advantages we have in this world.

A 7 year old can be content with her friends, and still be courageous enough to make new ones.

But most importantly, a 7 year old can feel joy about the great memories she's had in all her 7 years - filled with fun and excitement, surrounded by family and friends who love her. And still, be filled with enthusiasm and anticipation for the future, and the possibilities that are endless for her - an intelligent, beautiful, sharp, compassionate, amazing big girl!

all good things must come to an end

2008-09-22T19:39:00.000-07:00

With the end of a fun weekend, also came the end to my streak of good luck and polished health. Saturday night, the chest pains started... again. I really thought maybe I pulled a muscle or something, because it felt a little different than in the past. Well, maybe I was just trying to convince myself. So Sunday morning came and I skipped my usual step class (I so hated that!!) I mostly took it easy Sunday - ran a few small errands, but stayed pretty low key. Tina and Madelyn headed out after lunch and I had some work to do (since I skipped out early Friday). April studied and I worked, and the day just flew by. I was feeling a little better and was very optimistic that the pains would go away.

But then Sunday night rolled around and I didn't sleep well at all. I was up, tossing and turning from the pain about every hour. By the time I got up Monday morning, I knew I'd have to call the doctor. And so I did, and as usual, they were amazing at squeezing me in. I went around lunch time.

So the bad news... I have to go back up on the Prednisone dose, and may be on the steroids for a long while.

But the good news... We're going to try going to moderate increased dose, and for only 5 days, then back down to just above where I've been most recently.

And more good news... I looked forward to going in to the doc because (now don't laugh at me), I wanted to weigh in! And although their scale has always been a little higher than mine (on my high weight, and current), it did confirm what I've been tracking... to date, since the start of me doing weight watchers, I've lost about 14 lbs!

So that's that for now... I'll keep you all updated.

The start of a fun weekend...

2008-09-22T19:32:00.000-07:00

Mom, Allan, Megan, and Mia all came in late Thursday night. On Friday, they went to Jackie's pep rally in the morning, and then had plans to do some running around. Shopping for Madelyn's birthday present(s) was first priority. I went into work in the morning, but was having a very hard time focusing knowing that my gang was here. I really wanted to hang with them, so I decided to take the afternoon off and bring work home with me for Sunday when everyone left. April was so kind to come pick me up (again, I ask... what in the world would I ever do without her!) She brought me home, we ate a quick lunch, I changed clothes, and she took me over to Lene's and all of my junk over to Lene's. Mom, Megan, Allan, Mia and I went to Khol's to find some work slacks for mom for the Fall, and of course, I found a few things too (never fails!)

Meanwhile, Tina and Madelyn were on their way in. They made it Dallas before peak traffic time (YEAH!) so they came to the Glazer household to meet us, and from there, we all went to the high school to see Jackie and Dani's volleyball game. April and I had bought tons of stuff for dinner Friday night for everyone. I made salsa chicken in the crockpot and we had tacos with all of the trimmings. And for desert - birthday cake for Trey and Allan (and it was sooo yummy!)

We didn't last too long Friday night because we had to get home and get things ready for Madelyn's birthday party. So we stayed up until midnight making stuffed jalapenos and hamburger patties. By then, we were so tired that I crashed before I could even turn the light off in the bedroom!

Madelyn's Turning 7!!

2008-09-22T17:32:00.000-07:00

Saturday came all too quickly, and we got up early to go to a step class at the club in Frisco. It was the first time we went to this particular class, and we really liked it. Tina kept up great and April and I fell into step pretty easily. We hurried home to shower and get ready to head to the Glazer's to get ready for Madelyn's birthday party. She was so excited about her swimming party, I don't think she could stand it! We took the first set of supplies, food, etc. by the house and headed to Sams to get the cupcakes, hamburger buns, fresh veggies and other misc. things that hadn't been gotten yet. Although April and I (mostly April) had been in and out of grocery stores about 10 times in the last week (no exaggeration), there were still a few things that we needed. Jackie, Dani, and Gina helped hang streamers; Trey and Allan went and had the Scooby Doo balloons filled with helium, April, Mom, Tina, and I got all of the food ready, and then it was time to party!

The kids swam, Trey grilled stuffed jalapenos (so good) and hamburgers (delicious), and we all hung out visiting and celebrating what a big girl Madelyn has become! The kids were so excited about the pinata. And speaking of the pinata, here is a funny story... the pinata was not a "beat with a bat" kind, but had a bunch of strings hanging below. Only one opened the trap door. Each kid is supposed to pull a string until the one to open the door is randomly selected. I found which one was THE one and tied it up to be sure that every kid got a chance before the door was opened. Well, Madelyn was so excited that she came up the pinata as we were getting ready, grabbed ahold of the entire bunch of strings and pulled the entire bunch off!!! BUT, since I had tied up the magical one, it was the only one still attached. So we had to resort instead to the traditional beat the pinata until it bursts!

Next came time for cupcakes and Mindy's famous chocolate mousse. Madelyn was surprised and thrilled that Mindy made mousse just for her birthday. It was a big hit, and there were Scooby Doo cupcakes galore to make it a party filled with Madelyn's favorite thing - dessert!

All that was left was presents - and there were plenty to go around! Madelyn got a Barbie real working laptop with games and challenges, an awesome colorful dress with matching BLING necklace, a potholder kit (that I was looking at and want to do myself!), Hannah Montana PJs and dolls, clothes, clothes, and more clothes, Barbie accessories, Doll accessories, Cabbage Patch Kids stuff, DVDs, Webkins, Easy Bake Oven, and the list goes on and on! She was one happy camper and couldn't wait (and didn't wait) to start tearing open all her new goodies.

We're so lucky to have such wonderful family and friends that made her 7th birthday so much fun!

Happy Birthday Trey!!

2008-09-13T16:09:00.001-07:00

Today is Trey's 32nd birthday!! We're celebrating in high style... this morning Trey setup his birthday present... a new Wii, and with him in pajamas and the rest of us barely dressed, we played Wii all day while the rain came down outside!!! Now we're getting ready to go to dinner to the very classy Babes (Fried Chicken - so yummy and so NOT on my diet - but it is Trey's birthday and therefore diet's don't count). The weather outside is really gloomy, so we've all enjoyed just being lazy.

We had planned on going to Blanco this weekend, but hurricane Ike decided to make other plans for us. With everything going on and everyone having to evacuate to places all over Texas, we decided it was better to stay put.

So...

Happy birthday to you!!
Happy birthday to you!!!!
Happy birthday to Treybaby!!!!!!!!!
Happy birthday to you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I love you!

Take a hike IKE

2008-09-13T15:38:00.000-07:00

If you don't know about hurricane Ike by now, I have one question for you... What rock are you living under? In one of the many news segments I watched I saw a store on the Galveston coast being boarded up, and they painted on the wood "Take a hike Ike". Well said!

You all know that I grew up in Houston, where my mom still lives (in the same house I called home for 18 years as a matter of fact). Well, this time around she decided to ride out the storm, all by herself, at home. I hate that she is by herself. But as hard as I tried (and I have to say I didn't try that hard because I already knew it wouldn't do any good), she was determined to stay put. You see, when hurricane Rita was headed to the Houston area, she evacuated with the millions of other people, and headed to Dallas (she was actually coming to Dallas that weekend anyway, but had to leave earlier, and wasn't planning on so much company on the road). The normally 4.5 hour drive took upwards of 20+ hours. It was awful! So this time around, she said "no way". (Her zip code was one of the many in Harris County that was recommended to stay put). Although she is in Southwest Houston, she is pretty far from the coast, and wasn't at risk of being in the midst of the storm surge. She was, however, at risk of losing her electricity, flooding, extremely high winds, etc. Well, she did in fact lose her electricity in the middle of the night last night. Big bummer, and for anyone who doesn't know my mom very well, she doesn't do well with being "uncomfortable". You can imagine without any electricity (in other words: no A/C), she is very uncomfortable. Miserable is more like it.

Then I got an email (thank goodness for blackberry's - we've been able to keep very in touch with email / text message through the phone) that her back room was major leaking. One of the big chairs that was back there that was in my grandmother's house was soaked. And she was running out of things to catch the water. In the dark, she tried to salvage what she could and move things around, but it was pretty much useless. And although it was dark, she could see that her fence was down. Then came another email that she was OVER it - she "doesn't want to play this game" anymore!! My heart breaks that she is there, by herself, dealing with all of this. I wish I could sweep her up and bring her to Dallas... Well, the latest update (we are talking every so often just to touch base, although it's difficult to get through on the phone lines), she is using the burner on her grill outside to boil water for tea, using the rainwater she caught in buckets in the leaking back room to fill the toilet tank and flush the toilet, using the grill to cook a fresh, much needed nice meal, opening the garage door manually every so often to turn on the car and charge her cell phone, and scrapbooking by candlelight. What else is there to do? Oh yeah - also praying for her electricity to be restored much sooner than the up to 1 week that is being currently quoted as a possibility. I must say - I so admire her tenacity, determination, and spirit!! Even in the midst of this pain the touchas nightmare, she is laughing. AMAZING!

My brother, sister-in-law, and niece live in Alvin - very near Galveston, with Megan's (my sister-in-law) very large family. I was shocked that they weren't among the thousands that were ordered to evacuate. They had planned to leave and go to San Antonio were my Megan has family. But San Antonio was projected to get pretty bad weather too (nothing like Galveston / Houston, but none the less) and possibly lose power in some areas, so that wasn't making much sense. They wavered on what to do, and ultimately decided to also stay put. I have to say, I wasn't happy about this at all! Even though they were technically not in the mandatory evacuation zone, I felt that they were too darn close, and I really thought they should leave. But they are adults, so they get to make their own decision. I've been keeping up with how they're doing through my mom. They lost electricity early last night, but otherwise, everyone there is fine. I'm so grateful. Allan called me this morning to check in, and Mia got on the phone to talk, and tell Aunt Rarah "it's raining". I told her Congratulations - she survived her first hurricane. She doesn't get it, but one day she will. They are all coming to Dallas next weekend for Madelyn's birthday, and I can't wait to see them!!!

Well, that's about all the news we have here for now. We're just hoping for the best of a horrible situation for everyone affected by hurricane Ike, and very thankful that everyone we know and love is doing well.

2008-09-02T19:03:00.000-07:00

We had a fantastic long weekend!

On Friday Lauren came to Dallas for a visit. Lauren and I have known each other since pre-school! And I am so grateful that she is one of my longest and best friends, and I so admire her for her strength of character, determination, and sincerity - she is one of the most genuine people I've ever known. We have such a unique friendship - with lots of history, memories, and great times. It's a friendship that has survived all kinds of obstacles in both of our lives... school and boys and all the dramas that go with being a teenager, camp and college and careers, and now 1400 + miles. She is one of those people that I can go months without talking to, and all it takes is a phone call for us to be right where we left off. Since Lauren was coming for a friends wedding, she came in a day early and spent a night with us (and bring LOTS of surprises to spoil Madelyn - for those of you who don't know - Lauren works for Disney. You can imagine she is Madelyn's BFF!!!) We had a great dinner on Friday, catching up on everything going on in each other's lives, and stayed up late just chatting. Saturday we woke up (well Lauren was woken up by a very eager Madelyn), did a little exercise on demand, took our time showering and getting ready, and met mom, Lene, and Kim for lunch at Panera. I was so sad that from there I had to take Lauren to the hotel for the start of her wedding weekend festivities - bummer that we didn't get to spend more time together, but I was so glad to get at least a day with her!!!

Here we are - goofin off - before heading out to dinner.

From there, Madelyn and I headed to Lene's to spend the rest of the day with them. Madelyn got a new playdo ice cream maker, and spent the afternoon making me yummy treats! All the while, Daddy was hard at work at Marcia and Larry's putting up a new fence. He got done a little early though, and was able to spend the evening with us. We went to Niecie's for pizza and the kickoff of the UT football season.

Sunday was an amazing and special day - Brady's baby naming. In Jewish tradition, babies are named for deceased family members to honor and remember them, and pass on to them characteristics of that loved one that we hope the child will posses. A baby naming ceremony takes place to give the baby their Hebrew name and officially welcome them to the world. Brady's naming ceremony was beautiful (although he wasn't too happy to be the center of attention at one point - quite funny since I don't really think he is a fussy baby.)!!! Travis read a very cute poem that he wrote when Brady was born, and Deborah talked about where Brady's name came from (After her grandmother and grandfather). Even Alex spoke a little about the big responsibilities he has as Big Brother - adorable!! It was really a nice afternoon - good food, good friends, and good reason to celebrate! And to finish it off, Deborah had a gorgeous crystal bowl for me from the Nasher store (I have strategically been avoiding that store!) as a thank you for making the naming invitations... TOTALLY UNNECESSARY, but SO beautiful -- Thank You again!!!

After all that going on this weekend, you can imagine I was incredibly thankful to have Monday off. Well... what was I thinking when I scheduled my trainer for 8:00 am?!?!?! I must have been crazy. And remember I said Lauren and I did exercise on demand on Saturday. Well, I also did it on Sunday morning, and on Sunday I did the Biggest Loser Total Body Workout - 25 minutes of all Cardio and pretty much all squats (with weights), and a 25 minute Kickboxing workout. I was so sore, my butt hurt!!! So I get to the gym (at 8:00 am!!! I must remind you) and my trainer, unbeknownst to me, had planned a squats workout. I thought I was going to die! Leenie - get the hot tub ready for me!

Well, that's about it for the weekend. I'm very sad to report that I did in fact weigh on Monday - my usual weigh day - and I didn't lose any weight last week. Ironically, mom had her weigh day on Saturday and she also didn't lose any weight (strange how much the same we are sometimes). When she told me, I responded with - "well at least you didn't gain any weight either". She made me eat my words! But after a long weekend of eating out quite a bit and celebrating being with old friends and a new little friend, I guess I can't complain, and at least I didn't gain any weight either. I will say - I am feeling so much more balanced and healthier than I have in a long time, and I very much enjoying being on weight watchers and working out.

First Week of School

2008-08-28T07:48:00.000-07:00

Madelyn had her first day of 1st Grade this week! She had a great day. She likes her teacher, Mrs. Gibson, and has several of her friends from Kindergarten in her class. They played some games, ate lunch together as a class, etc. Trey went down to take her for her first day, along with her mom, and got some great pictures. He hung around Waco for the day, picked her up in the afternoon, and took her for ice cream afterward. What a special day! I can’t believe she is in First Grade – what a big girl!! It will be only a matter of time before she has homework I can’t help with and is spouting out random fun facts and knowledge that I have never heard of!!!

Along with Madelyn starting First Grade, this week marked the start of High School for Jackie and Dani!!! Now this, I REALLY can’t believe! My girls are old enough for high school? Jackie is on the volleyball team, and is a Freshman cheerleader, and Dani is on the volleyball team. They are already so involved and active, and I know they are going to do so great. Poor Dani, though… She fell down the steps at Forever 21 in the mall, (I’ve been in that store and their floors are really slippery), and sprained her ankle really badly. She was on crutches last weekend and then of course had to start high school with a boot! So recently I was thinking – OMG, the girls will have their licenses in a year and half, and be looking at colleges in about two and half years. I just can’t believe what amazing young ladies they’ve become. Madelyn has some great examples to follow!

2008-08-21T18:59:00.001-07:00

Go back down to check out LA, Day 2 - I added some pics!

LA, California – Day 3 (Tuesday, Aug 5)

2008-08-21T15:13:00.000-07:00

So day 3 began in the same manner as days 1 and 2… wake up (much too early – aren’t we supposed to be sleeping in on vacation?), shower, get dressed – you know the drill. So the differences this morning than the other mornings: 1. there was some added whining about how this bed isn’t quite up to par (minor whining, but whining non the less – and from both mom and me), and 2. this morning we forgo makeup (it’s not like we are trying to impress anyone, after all!). Before we head down to Morsel’s (our new favorite little spot in the hotel) for our regular coffee / latte, and bagel and fresh fruit to split, (we don’t really want to waste any time, nor do either of us feel like sitting down for a lengthy breakfast), I called the valet for the car. The conversation goes something like this:

Sarah (all perky and happy, of course): “HI – I’d like my car brought up, please”
Valet: Sure, what’s the ticket #
Sarah: 123456 (No - that’s not really the #, but I don’t remember it now!)
Valet: Will you be checking out
Sarah: For the 100th time – NO! We’re not checking out yet!! When we check out, I’ll tell you we’re checking out damn it!

Ok – so I wasn’t really that nasty, or nasty at all, but why do they keep asking me if we’re checking out?! It was so annoying. So I just couldn’t wait to call on the day we actually were checking out and finally get to say YES, and wouldn’t you know – when we went to check out the next morning, the concierge offered to have our car pulled up for us and I didn’t even get to call!

So anyway, we get into the car, plug in Gypsy, and get ready to head to the Fashion District. Beyond just wanting to go to check it out and see what we could find, we were also on a mission to each find a cheap travel bag. You see, we over shopped just a little bit, and were both (mom more than me) worried that we wouldn’t be able to fit everything in our suitcases to go home! Well, Gypsy had just about had it with us, because this morning she decided she wasn’t up for playing. So instead of having our usual voice activated directions, we had to wing it. Luckily we’d looked at a little map the hotel gave us that showed the general vicinity of the Fashion District, and we thought we’d surely see signs once we got close, so we just went for it. And we did pretty well – only a few extra twists and turns, and we were there. It was really only a short distance from the hotel (5 – 10 minutes). Once we got there, we realized why everyone said it would be a short experience. It was kind of gross and dirty. First of all, we had to go up this HUGE ramp to park (paying $8, of course), and then walk downstairs in this dark alley-like stairwell. It made me think of a stairwell that bums would go into to pee. So we’re kind of looking at each other like – really?! But we ventured on, being sure to make note of where we parked (the last thing we needed was to get lost in this place!). First we stopped in this little costume jewelry spot where I found a great “fun” necklace for me, and a little something for Madelyn. As we went on, we found shops that had handbags (much like Sam Moon or Harwin) and suitcases / duffels. Well, Mom ended up finding 2 great leather handbags – very fun and different, lots of pockets for her, and I found 1 too. From there, the next shop had suitcases, so we each got a small bag to get all of our goodies home. We wandered from there to Santee Alley. This is where we read that all of the “unique” shopping was. Well, unique it was. We got about 1/4 of the way through and turned around to go back. It was dirty, and felt cheap, and basically every little stop had the same junk as all the others. All in all, it was pretty much a disappointment. But then again, we both got just what we wanted, and weren’t suckered into a bunch of junk we didn’t need, so maybe it wasn’t a disappointment after all! We were definitely ready to go, though!

By now, we were starting to get a little hungry, and needed to decide where to head to next. Whenever we asked for suggestions, several people had said to check out The Grove. So we headed there next. We plugged it into Gypsy (who was now deciding to cooperate). But you see, we didn’t have the exact address, so we put into Gypsy “Grove St.”. About 30 minutes, and towards Glendale she said, so that’s where we headed. As we were getting closer, we kept saying – this doesn’t seem quite right. But it’s what she says, so keep going. Well… sure enough we “arrived at our destination”, and it wasn’t our destination at all!! It was a neighborhood (and not a very nice one at that). We were laughing as I called Jen and said “HELP”. She, all the while laughing at us, looked up the address of The Grove for us, and gave it to us. Well, apparently it makes a difference if you put in “Grove St.” vs “THE Grove St.”. So, another 30 minutes later, and almost back where we started from, we arrived at our INTENDED destination.

When we first arrived, mom wanted to take our picture in the mirrored elevator doors. It was actually quite funny, since twice right as she was taking the picture, the doors opened. People must have thought what goofballs we were! But she finally got one...

Well you can imagine if we were hungry when we first started on this adventure, by now we were starving. We parked and headed first to find food. There is this great restaurant called The Farm (I actually remembered Lauren taking me there for brunch when I visited her, but a different location). We looked over the menu and decided this was good. It was very café like – sandwiches, burgers, salads, etc. We sat inside (again – a wait for outside table) and enjoyed a relaxing lunch together. Next up, we decided just to wander around The Grove. It was a beautiful setup – much like a village – with boutiques, stores, restaurants and lots of trees. We stopped into Barnes and Noble so mom could get my new favorite find – the Hungry Girl cookbook (GREAT investment, by the way!), and some magazines for the plane ride home tomorrow. Next stop was Nordstrom to try to find me new black flip flops (I replaced my brown ones, but was still on the mission for the black ones I wanted – no luck here).

Here is mom hanging out in the fountains at The Grove. Isn't she so cute in her hat?

So now it was getting a little hot, and we felt like we’d seen it, so off to the next adventure we go. We’d been on a mission the last few days to find a Trader Joes at some point. So we plugged that into Gypsy, and boom – one was within 2 miles of where we were. We got some good snacks for the plane, but other than that – it didn’t really live up to the hype. Next stop was to find a Payless so mom could return the tennis shoes she bought for us to work out (ha – that was funny! We walked so much during each of our days, there was NO energy left to workout!). So we plugged that into Gypsy (who was now working like a charm), and boom again – there was one within a mile of where we were. Now, with that done – what to do next?

We were supposed to go to dinner at the Ivy tonight – I’d even made reservations a month ago, but neither of us felt like getting dressed nice and messing with it, so I cancelled our reservation and we went back to the hotel to relax and pack up a little. We decided to go to dinner at The Daily Grill – a restaurant that I went to once before and remember being pretty good, and it was really close to the hotel and didn’t require us to change or get too cleaned up. Well, it ended up being just perfect for our last night. The food was DELICIOUS. We split a grilled artichoke appetizer, wedge salad, and steak with fresh broccoli. It was so yummy, cooked to perfection, and the perfect amount of food. We really enjoyed our last night together!

Here I am just enjoying out dinner together!

And finally, mom and I so loved the lobby of our hotel - there were beautiful fresh floral arrangements every day, and they smelled so good!

Addendum to "Success"

2008-08-20T18:47:00.000-07:00

I have to add an addendum to my last blog - Success...

Actually, mom bought one of the cookbooks and I bought one (she bought the more expensive one!). She didn't know it at the time, but she was happy to support my new hobby!

XOXO to you Mom!

Success

2008-08-19T12:09:00.000-07:00

Success to me these days is the feeling that I’m getting somewhere towards my goal.

Last week I lost 3 more lbs, and to date since the start of Weight Watchers (about a month), 8 lbs total. It hasn’t been easy, but I have to say I’ve really enjoyed the challenge and the progress. It was the most difficult while I was on vacation – it’s just so hard to eat out and try to monitor portions and ingredients. And while I was determined to do my best, I also wasn’t going to give up eating good things (by good I mean yummy, not necessarily good for me!) while I was on vacation. But I got right back into the swing of things once I got home, and it’s so nice to see it paying off!

I’ve been working out a great deal (about 4 times a week) and although I’ve NEVER been one to “enjoy” going to the gym, I’ve started to really like it!!! I can’t believe it, but I do. Sometimes it’s still hard to be motivated (it would be so much easier to sit on my touchas and watch TV), but I look forward to working out – especially my classes (favorite is Step, but I also love Water Aerobics, and just started a Kickboxing).

The other thing I’ve really been happy with latterly is trying some new recipes.

First, I have to rave about the Hungry Girl cookbook (here is the link to her website http://www.hungry-girl.com/). It is FABULOUS!!! The recipes tend to be “remakes” of traditional things to make them so much better for you. And although it isn’t a Weight Watchers thing, the Hungry Girl is affiliated and gives points values for all of her recipes. So far, I’ve tried several things I love, but especially the Fiber One “fried” chicken, and Fiber One “fried” onion rings. It’s totally like eating fried chicken and onion rings – only better and SO much better for you!

I’ve also pulled some great recipes from the Weight Watchers website. Last week I did a Honey Balsamic Chicken – only 4 points a serving and DELICIOUS! There has been some others too – some great veggie recipes to spice things up a little more, and a few chicken dishes, etc. Desserts have been fun too – I did a brownie topped with marshmallows, graham cracker and chocolate drizzle – soooo good and 2 points! I have a list of several more to get to too.

And finally, this weekend I bought 2 new cookbooks and flagged about 20 recipes in each to try in the coming weeks. I’ve narrowed down the field while shopping for cookbooks by only considering ones that have nutrition information. It’s been super helpful, and I’ve found some really yummy sounding things to try – I’ll keep you all posted!

So that’s my latest craze – I hope I can continue it. Actually, I will continue it! Wish me luck!

LA, California – Day 2 (Monday, Aug 4)

2008-08-18T19:17:00.001-07:00

So day 2 began much like day 1... Wake up early, roll out of bed, shower, dress, head downstairs to a little cafe for coffee, bagel and fruit to go that mom and I split, and get moving because we have lots to do. And we did do a ton today!

Here are few pictures of us outside of the hotel, waiting for our car. The day must begin with a few smiles!

First, we headed to Hollywood. I can't even type the word without hearing mom in my ear singing "Hollywood, dun, dun, dun, dun Hollywood" over and over and over and over and over and over again! I think I actually leaned over and smacked her to stop! So, we head to Hollywood and have no problems getting there (Thank You Gypsy!). Mom read about Brooks and Dunn getting their star on the walk of fame, so we wanted to try to see that. Even though neither of us are necessarily big Brooks and Dunn fans, (I at least know some of their songs and what they look like - mom is completely clueless and keeps calling them Dunn and Brooks), we thought what a cool experience that would be. So it was supposed to happen at 11:00, and we got to Hollywood by around 9:30 - plenty of time to find out where we needed to be, right? Well, we walked, and stopped and asked, and walked some more, and stopped and asked, and walked some more. We walked over spots we'd already been 2 and 3 times. Since we had some time to kill and were still looking, we ducked into a few souvenir shops and got goodies to take home. Finally, we duck into the Gap (my good 'ole faithful) and ask a sales associate there if he knows anything about Brooks and Dunn getting their star (so far everyone we asked says "yeah - I heard something about that, but I don't know where it is"). Well, he says he thinks it's all the way down at the other end - surprise, surprise. So now it is getting really close to time and here we thought we were so ahead of the game. We book it back down to the other end of the walk of fame and sure enough, there are the barricades and people waiting.

We got there just in time (luckily not too early after all since we are in the HOT sun, with no shade, and I forgot my hat at the hotel, and you know how the sun doesn't agree with me!). Pretty soon, here comes Brooks and Dunn. You can see in these pictures we really weren't that far away. As mom is taking pictures she keeps saying - "which ones are they?" and "which one is that?". She is so funny. I'm just laughing, especially since we are surrounded by die hard fans (one lady from Australia!) who are going berserk. It turned out that Dr. Phil and his wife were doing the introduction so they were also there. She was all decked out in her boob popping Dolce and 3 inch Louboutin heels. So first we had to hear from the President of the LA Chamber of Commerce, then someone else in a similar sort of role (I can't remember), then Dr. Phil, then his wife... jeez - give us the stars already!!

At this point, I'm sweating, it's so hot, and I am so over this. So, mom and I decide - enough already. We came, we saw, we took the pictures, we're done. Oh, by the way - I almost forgot to say that about halfway through all the nobody's speeches, mom's camera battery died (forgot to charge it the night before - oops), so you can imagine we're REALLY done!

Here are a few pictures from our stardom... The grey haired guy in the middle is some big whig in the LA Chamber of Commerce - whoopty - but as you can see he is totally blocking our view! Look on either side and you can see Brooks and Dunn and the back of Dr. Phil's bald head.

This one is for Allan (I'm not sure if he even reads my blog), but he better appreciate this one - this guy was sweaty and kept trying to talk while I was trying to smile for the picture!

As we're walking back towards the Kodak Theater (home of the "red carpet"), we see along the backside of where all this hooplah was going on that there is a DSW. We duck in, (Let me sidebar really quickly to say that this DSW was HUGE - twice as big as any I've seen and with tons of great stock), and wallah - we have a perfect, air conditioned view of Brooks and Dunn getting their star. But soon, we were REALLY over seeing them pose for pictures and doing basically nothing, so I looked at some really cute handbags, and ended up finding some great Michael Kors shoes that were $100, on sale for 50% off, and with mom's $20 coupon (Thanks Mom!), I only paid $30!

It is now afternoon, and we are finished wandering Hollywood. We're now starving, and decided to head to this restaurant for lunch that my friend Jen recommended - The Alcove. She said it had a great menu - very cafe / bistro like. Sure enough, Gypsy got us there in no time, and just like Jen said - it was a very cute, quaint place with a different and very enticing menu. I ended up having a ham and cheese panini (with a not so common cheese I don't remember) and a side salad with balsamic dressing (still trying to be good). Mom had a turkey and cranberry sandwich with sweet potato fries (which of course I stole a few). It sounds easy enough, but it's difficult to accurately describe. They were made with just enough twist from a normal, boring way - and oh so yummy!! I have been finding something very interesting in our dining experiences in LA... in California, people wait for a table OUTSIDE, in Texas, people wait for a table INSIDE. Just an observation.

After lunch, we debate on what to do next. Mom is very distraught that she doesn't have a camera and even contemplates buying a disposable for the day. But of course, although we have seen 20 CVS along the way - there isn't one to be found now. We end up driving through Beverly Hills and along Rodeo Drive (at this point, we're happy to observe from the car and not have to pay to park to wander the stores we can't afford to shop in). One more thing to cross off the list - check!

As we headed back to the hotel, we came across a mall. Just what we needed, but I really was in need of some new Reef flip flops. My feet were killing me with all the walking we were doing, and my Reefs were 3 summers old, so it was time. We wandered around the mall (because we don't have malls in Texas!), and I did find a new pair of Reefs (made that change and threw my old ones away), and also stumbled across a store called Aldo where I found not 1, but 2 fabulous handbags, a pair or way cool gold sandals, and mom and I both found awesome necklaces. All in all, I spent only about $100 in the store and found some great stuff!

Back at the hotel, we decided to get a recommendation from the Concierge for dinner - something light and casual we tell her, and preferably close by. We remembered how difficult it was to find anything open in downtown at night, and we don't want to have to go far, or go fancy. So she recommended this Italian place called Zucca within a 5 minute drive and offered the hotel car to take us. We thought this was a good idea, but then we have to wait for the car to get back from taking someone else, then we'll have to call them when we're ready to be picked up and wait for them to come back. It's just not worth it and after all, that is why we rented a car. So we drive ourselves and just resound to pay for parking (did I mention you have to pay to park EVERYWHERE in LA and it's crazy expensive?!) We get to Zucca and are looking at each other like - oh no, this is so NOT what we had in mind. I felt very under dressed and it was not laid back at all. But whatever, we're already here now, so we might as well go with it (plus we already paid the $5 or $10 to park!). Mom and I split the eggplant parmigiana appetizer and a fried calamari (so not on my diet), and a margherita pizza. It was good, but NOT great, and definitely not worth the price. But oh well - at least now we're fed and can head back to the hotel to wind down and get some rest.

And we did - I think we crashed by 9:30!!!

What a guy

2008-08-17T18:34:00.000-07:00

I have to give major kudos to my husband - he gets a star award tonight. April had dinner with a friend, so it was just the two of us for dinner. A great opportunity for me to try out one of my Weight Watchers shrimp recipes (April doesn't eat shrimp and Trey and I love it). The recipe is for "Baked Shrimp in Lemony Garlic Sauce". Sounds yummy, right?

Here is the breakdown:
1 1/4 lb shrimp
1/4 cup lemon juice
2 Tbsp light butter, melted
3 medium garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
3/4 tsp lemon pepper
1/4 tsp red pepper
2 Tbsp parsley

Let me preface by saying that my paper I printed on is 3-hole punched, and for some reason this recipe is the only one that I printed that the ingredients are really close to the margin. There is a hole over the "3/4" for the lemon pepper and the "1/4" for the red pepper. Also, I didn't have red pepper, so cayenne pepper should work just as well, right?

The recipe is really easy (let me know if you want it - only 4 points). Basically, mix ingredients, pour over shrimp, bake for 10 minutes.

Well, I had almost 2 lbs of shrimp so I thought I'd close to double the recipe and have a little extra juice so I could serve over a little angel hair pasta. Makes sense, right?

So since I couldn't fully see the measurement of lemon pepper and red pepper, I guessed my best at what it looked like it was. I thought 3/4 tsp lemon pepper (check!), and 1/2 tsp red pepper (wrong!). And since, I was doubling, 1 tsp of cayenne pepper it is. Oh, I should also say that when I poured the Worcestershire sauce, it spilled over a little too, but a little extra won't really hurt anything, right?

Now the shrimp is baking great, the pasta boiling, dinner is almost ready with very little prep time. Trey takes a bite. The look on his face is priceless (did I tell you he doesn't really eat spicy food). I see the look on his face and say "it's not good, is it". He responds with an exuberant NO, and explains that there is something that just has a strong taste. So I taste it. Yep - it's the cayenne pepper. So, we get all settled at the table, and are enjoying dinner. (It's still good - just strong.) As I'm eating more, and reaching more for my drink (now mind you, I really like spicy food), I realize that it is REALLY spicy. Trey not only eats his and enjoys it (or pretends to), he gets up to get MORE!! I keep telling him I can make something else, he doesn't have to eat it, I know it's got to be way to hot for him, etc., and he says he really likes the flavor - it's just a little hot.

As he's helping me clean the kitchen, he thanks me for making dinner, says he LOVES my cooking 99 out of 100 times and so appreciates what I do for him.

What a husband!

Toothless, Part II

2008-08-16T07:36:00.000-07:00

She's at it again! Madelyn has lost another tooth. She now has a BIG gap in the front of her mouth! The toothfairy is going to have to take out a loan pretty soon at this rate.

Check out her new smile!

LA, California – Day 1 (Sunday, Aug 3)

2008-08-13T11:09:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was a long day! First of all, mom flew in Friday night. The timing was perfect – she landed in Orange County right as we finished up dinner and since we weren’t far from the airport, Dana dropped me off to pick up mom and our rental car. It worked out really well so that mom didn’t have to find her way to the hotel in the dark (even though I gave very thorough directions!) I was so happy to see her and to know that our girls trip was set to begin. It was hard to go to sleep because I just wanted to stay up and hang with her. But it didn’t take long for the exhaustion to set in (me from my day of work, mom from her travels).

So back to yesterday… It started with an early morning wake up – I had to get ready for work. One more day to go, and then we are on vacation – woohoo!! While I was working, mom went running all around Orange County. She went to several scrapbook stores, one in Huntington Beach where she was right on the water (great views), and of course, collected some great “California style” paper and goodies. She has to be the only person crazy enough to travel all the way from Texas to California to buy paper, punches, and scrapbook paraphernalia. Then she went to Southcoast Plaza – the premier shopping destination. She walked, and walked, and walked all around the mall. I laugh when I think of her shopping bags… scrapbook stores, Target, and Payless. All that distance for stores she has in Houston – how funny! I really thought I’d be done no later than dinner time, so after a bit, I told her to head over to St. John to pick me up. Well, that didn’t turn out to be the best move. Luckily mom is very flexible. She brought in her book and got quite a few chapters read of Story Telling (Tori Spelling’s book). It turns out, instead of being done with work around 6:00 pm like I expected, it was almost 11:00 pm!! I couldn’t believe it – but as mom always says – it is what it is. We still had the aprox 45 min drive from Irvine to Los Angeles, so on the road we went – LA here we come!!!

We arrived our hotel (thank you Gypsy – mom’s GPS – the greatest investment she ever made) close to midnight. We got checked in pretty quickly, unloaded our bags in the room, and with our tummy’s growling, headed down to the bar for a little something to eat. We ordered some food at the bar and talked about what we were going to do the next day. It was great to just be spending some good time together the two of us! With mom’s food, she got sweet potato fries – the start of her obsession for the trip.

Finally, off to bed we went. We were exhausted!

So that brings us to today…

First on the agenda was the President Reagan Library in Simi Valley. It was a bit of a drive, but a beautiful one (and easy – again thanks to Gypsy). The freeway took us right through mountains and it was amazing to see the landscape and how development is all different in the mountains versus in flat Texas. We got to the library very early (by 11:00 am), and beat the crowds. It was really perfect. There was a great short video highlighting Reagan’s path to the Whitehouse and his presidency. Short, sweet, and to the point – very well done.

Then we moved into what we really wanted to see… the exhibit of Nancy Reagan’s wardrobe. There were dresses, suits, and gowns from all different designers that she wore during her time as First Lady. It was absolutely amazing! First of all, the condition of these pieces was pristine. I was surprised at how well they were taken care of. They looked like they had just come out of the designer’s studio. Secondly, and even more amazingly, the styles were so classic and timeless. I could see a woman wearing nearly all of them today! I was overwhelmed by how the styles seem to be so modern and clean. It was also really cool to read about all of the occasions and events for which Nancy Reagan wore the designs. Very interesting! There was a great deal that was also devoted to telling the story of how she and “Ronnie” met, fell in love, and lived. It was really neat to hear.

Next up was the exhibit of Reagan’s journey to the Whitehouse, starting from him hometown, stint in Hollywood, time as Governor, then as President. We probably spent about an hour at Nancy’s exhibit, and about 10 minutes at Ronald’s!! The most interesting part was the section on the assassination attempt. All in all – 10 – 15 minutes was good enough.

Our final destination at the library was to tour Air Force One. They have open to the public the Air Force One that was used since before Reagan and to the current President Bush. It was extremely cool to see, but I have to say I was surprised at how “not fancy” it was. I really expected more. That is not to say that it wasn’t really neat – it was. Most overwhelming is the communication ability that is set up on an airplane! The first section is devoted to phone lines and communication connections. The president can essentially talk to anyone, anywhere in the world with a secure line on an airplane. I really wonder what the new Air Force One looks like? Is it fancier than the old one – afterall, this one had been in service for over 20 years. Surely they’ve modernized it at least a little!

The last stop at the Reagan library was to see a piece of the Berlin wall that was torn down during Reagan’s presidency. It looked like a big block of cement with graffiti on it (graffiti being something we’ve been getting really used to seeing in LA). But to know how much meaning and history is behind this decorated piece of cement was remarkable.

Well you would think that would have taken us all day, but we were done with all of that by 2:00. By now were starving though, so we stopped at a nearby Chili’s for lunch and to plan the rest of the days events. We picked a good stop for lunch, because we had a fabulous waitress who gave us directions to get to great stuff for the rest day…

Next stop was the Topanga mall. We got to see where the new Neiman Marcus is being built (well is already done being built and getting ready to open). And most importantly, they had a H&M – my one criteria for shopping in CA. It is this great store – comfortable, stylish, trendy enough without being out of style in one month, and cheap! Last time I found several things there for a total bill of less than $100, and I did it again – YIPEE! Topanga also had a very interesting and odd feature… a Target in the mall! We were shocked! It was the strangest thing.

From Topanga, we drove down to Santa Monica. (Did I say THANK GOODNESS for Gypsy yet?) The Santa Monica Pier was a highly recommended stop. Thanks to some strategic driving skills, we found parking right on the beach (thankfully NOT having to walk over the high bridge to cross the Pacific Coast Highway). So, for $10 in parking, we got to be right at the pier. We wandered up and down, stopped to buy some post cards, watched a guy doing a big break dancing routine, looked down at the not crystal blue water, and within 20 minutes, we felt we'd seen it all! The water wasn't as pretty as we'd expected (not as dirty looking as Galveston, but definitely not the clear blue in Mexico or Jamaica), but it was a beautiful view. We're just not people who enjoy looking at the beach, and since we were definitely not interested in swimming in the ocean, getting sand all over us, our clothes, in our shoes - we were done. As they say (I don't really know who "they" is... we came, we saw, we left!

Since we still had some time in the day, we decided to drive along PCH (Pacific Coast Highway) towards Malibu. I remembered that there was a great restaurant right on the water that Lauren took me to during my last visit to LA, and I was pretty sure it was in Malibu and I'd remember it when I saw it. Sure enough, we arrived at Duke's, and thought it would be beautiful to have dinner on the water as the sun set. So, we valeted the car (everything in and around LA is valet - pain in the butt!), went inside, put our names on the list (45 min wait), went to the restroom, and then decided... we don't really feel like waiting 45 minutes, and we weren't very hungry for a heavy meal, so maybe let's head back to the hotel afterall. Now you know me - I'm thinking - I hope I don't have to pay the $6 valet for 10 minutes! Well, sure enough, they had already parked our car, but he gave us the keys and let us just get it out and go. So, we drove back along PCH, all the while admiring the view of the huge beach houses along the mountainside, and headed for our temporary "home". As we were beginning to find, pretty much nothing was more than 30 minutes from our hotel, so we made it back relatively quickly. We unpacked the car and took everything up to our room, and then headed out grab a quick bite to eat. Since there is NOTHING open around the hotel past 6:00 ish (downtown LA shuts down after work hours!!), we ended up across the street from our hotel at California Pizza Kitchen - service stunk, food was good and light (we shared a pizza and salad - way to keep the points down), and before long, we were back at the hotel, CRASHED!

It was a long, fun, day!

Enjoy these pics from the in the hotel and the Reagan Library...

Toothless

2008-08-12T13:08:00.000-07:00

After much pushing, prodding, and pulling, Madelyn has lost another tooth. And even better – she pulled this one out herself! She’s been wiggling it for days. “I think it’s ready” she kept saying, “look at it”. (How many times do I have to look at it barely hanging there by a thread? It so grosses me out!!) She even asked me to pull at it today – to which I said an exuberant HECK NO! She was so proud of herself for getting it out all by herself – as she should be.

As you can see in one of these pictures, the other big one in the front is really loose too! It’s also barely hanging there – and she’s been obsessively working on that one now. It won’t be long either…

So now, the question of the day to you all… how much does the tooth fairy pay for a tooth these days? It’s been quite a discussion. As Jennifer and I were discussing this very topic, she relayed Hollie (Madelyn’s cousin) losing her first tooth. When Hollie woke up the next morning, she came running down the stairs, so excited, that she SAW the tooth fairy – she swore by it – and happily recalled that the tooth fairy wore a pink and purple dress. So, that must only mean one thing… Hollie’s dad is very fond of dressing up in girls clothes! Grammy – if you’re reading this – time to get on to Trey’s pink and purple tutu!!!

Hot, Lazy Summer Days

2008-08-10T16:31:00.000-07:00

The rest of the week of my vacation has been filled with lazy, hot days. Thursday we took Madelyn bowling - she and I both bowled and it was tons of fun. It's been a very long time since I bowled and it was nice to get out my old ball and shoes. Madelyn got to use her very own ball that Grammy and Grandad gave her for Hannukah. She was pretty good too - much better than me. And most important, we had a good time and stayed out of the heat! Afterward, we went home where I took a nap, before going to a new step class. It was a very tough class - the instructor was nice, but really hard to follow and she didn't do step routines but once or twice and she kept moving on right when I got it down. Good thing we walked a lot in LA!

So then Friday rolled around. We spent the morning running around and then the girls (April, Mads and I) went for some good ole fashion girl relaxing - yep, you guessed it... mani's and pedi's. Trey left later in the day with the boys to the Degani's family lakehouse to do some work (water heater burst leaving a flooded mess), and all the girls (Lene, Dani, Jackie, April, Mads, and me) went to dinner at my favorite - Mi Cocina. I was really hungry when we got there (not a good thing), so I ate quite a bit of chips and salsa. Since I overdid it on that, I decided to be good and order the salad instead of what I really wanted - fajitas. Afterward, Madelyn and I went to have coffee with Ashley. We were so excited to see her and catch up!

Well that brings us to Saturday. We got up in the morning to hang a bit with the girls from the office. Jen and Alex came over to do a little creative "work" and hang out. Little did they know they'd be hanging with a 6 year old! Madelyn stuck to them like glue and just ate up all the "new" attention. In the afternoon, April and I went to they gym and took Madelyn to play in the kids land. Little did we know, the kids stuff is only open until 1 on the weekends, so we had to go back home, and instead found exercise on demand. We did 3 segments in the living room - a biggest loser cardio workout, tae bo, and walking 1 mile. It was really cool! We're going to try to do a few on most days we don't go to the gym. After that it was time to get ready for what Madelyn's been waiting weeks for... the Circus! She's been so excited for it and it was finally here. We were actually supposed to go to the 3:30 show, but since Trey was going to the lakehouse to help the boys, we tried to get our tickets switched to the later show. First I called the AAC, but they said I had to go through ticketmaster since that was where I got the tickets from. Well, before I could even call them, I mentioned it to Michael. He sent our tickets info to his guy who does his Stars tickets to see if he could help. Within a few hours, we had new tickets for the later show waiting for us at will call. Well, when we got there we found that not only has he swapped our show time, but had totally upgraded our seats. We ended up with the most perfect spot in the house!

So now it is Sunday. April, Mads and I went to the gym this morning - Madelyn to the kids playland, April and I to step class. I slept very awkwardly on my back last night and it's been really hurting me all day. After the gym, we came over to Glazer land to swim and hang out, and have been here all day. First swimming and relaxing in the hot tub (I know you're thinking in this heat - we must be looney! But it felt great on my back). April and I ran a few errands - including finding this great store just up the street that is all sugar free products. We got a few things to try, and are really excited about the potential! We've been playing on the Wii for the last few hours - I totally need to get one of these! I wasn't too happy to hear that my fitness age is 45!!!! But it's really hard on the first time to even figure out what to do. It's been lots of laughs and has some great workout potential.

So that's all for now. I'll start posting about mom and my trip to California soon. In the meantime, enjoy these pics from the Circus!

going back in time

2008-08-08T17:47:00.000-07:00

I bet you all are wondering where in the world I've been! Well... here I am! It's been a crazy and fun filled 2 weeks since I last posted. We returned home from Blanco (minus Madelyn of course), and went right back into the work routine. Then I left for California - first for work, then for vacation. I returned home - tired - and having had a fantastic time with mom, to get right back into things. The last few days have been spent entertaining a 6 year old (NOT an easy thing to do), and trying to find the energy to do anything in this heat is not easily done.

So, in an effort to keep you all intrigued and wanting for more (and to keep me from trying to recap it all in one big post), I'm going to update our California trip one day at a time, as if it's happening now. I would have updated while we were there - if the internet access hadn't been $6.95 for every 15 minutes at the hotel!!! But before I even get to California, I have to update the beginning of last week before I left.

So, here goes...

Monday, July 28
It's been one week on Weight Watchers, and today I weighed in with 2.5 lbs loss!! (I bet you all were thinking I would reveal what the scale actually said - no such luck! You only get to know the loss (or gains) as they happen). When I looked at the #s on the scale I felt:
1. Happy - progress! You have to start somewhere, right? And at least I'm moving in the right direction
2. Proud - progress! It's hard to follow a diet or eating plan - any plan. I felt proud that I stuck to it pretty well and had at least a little something to show for it.
3. Regret - that I didn't pay more attention to this a long time ago. I think I gained a great deal of weight in the past year while I was being diagnosed and going through my illness. But as much as I would like to blame the weight gain on the steroids, I can't. Sure, I think they are a part of it - causing me to be hungry and eating a lot more, but if I had watched it, I could have been eating better and doing things to counter the effect.
4. Longing - for the days of being a size 0 or 2, eating whatever I wanted, never having to work out to work it off... you know the drill. Oh to be young again!

Well, all these things combined, I guess I just have to go with mom's favorite motto... "It is what it is". All I can do now is keep it up and get back to where I want and should be. My first goal is total loss of about 20 lbs. Then once I reach that I'll re goal myself to lose a little more.

Oh - I almost forgot... I am SUPER excited about my new cookbook - Hungry Girl. It has some fabulous recipes for meals, sides, desserts, and snacks - all things that you really want and can't have - only now you can have! She works a lot with WW, so all of the recipes have points values making it very easy to keep track of. So today I went to the grocery store and got TONS of ingredients to try out some of the recipes (ouch - eating healthy is expensive!). Tonight April and I made our first Hungry Girl (HG) recipe - chocolate brownie cupcakes. I fondly refer to them as my "poo cupcakes". You can imagine what they look like. But luckily I don't judge a book by its cover because once we tasted these cupcakes - they are YUMMY! At 4 points for one, it's not too bad of a value. And I can easily eat half and be satisfied.

Wednesday, July 29
The last 2 days have been packed! First of all - Madelyn is having a fantastic time at Grammy and Grandads. She had her 2nd horseback riding lesson today (her first one on Monday). Something tells me that by next summer, she is going to be an expert! There is nothing that kid can't and won't do! I so admire her bravery and determination. Some would even call it stubbornness (this she gets from her dad). Yesterday I tried another HG recipe - mini pepperoni pizza. It was very yummy, very filling, and only 4 points!! Topped it off with 1/4 of my poo cupcake, and I was full!

Today was busy busy busy. Trying to wrap things up at work before I leave tomorrow. It's really difficult to do regular work stuff while in market, so I try to get as much done as possible beforehand. Then I'm on vacation for a little over a week, so it's going to be 2 1/2 weeks before I'm actually back in the office. And this is our last week of our year, and we are down to the wire to making our financial plan. It is all coming down to the last few days (how stressful!). So, after work, April and I went to step class - I have to get as much working out in as I can before I leave and am on vacation. Then we got home and made dinner - more HG recipes. Talk about YUMMY! We made Fiber One Fried Chicken (actually baked chicken with a "fried" crust), and Butternut Squash French Fries. They were both DELICIOUS - and only 7 points! I am really enjoying this cookbook. Now, I'm off to pack (I so hate packing), and then I have to get some sleep since the alarm will go off at 4:45 am!

Little Bits of Nothing

2008-07-26T12:14:00.000-07:00

So, we're spending the weekend in Blanco, visiting Grammy and Grandad. Madelyn is super excited that she gets to spend the whole week here at "Grammy Camp". They have horseback riding lessons scheduled (to which Madelyn said - we're going to jump over things), farm animals to tend to, eggs to gather, lots of fun activities, and general hanging out with Grammy and Grandad. She is going to have a blast, and I think by Friday, Grammy and Grandad are going to need a week just to recover!

This morning we set the alarm, and the girls went on a nice walk before it got too hot. We walked up to the high school track, around the track 4 times, and back home. All in all, we clocked it at 3.3 miles. And since it was still early there was a nice breeze and the sun wasn't really out yet. It made me feel much better about having mexican food for lunch (I monitored chips and salsa intake, and ate half my meal - chicken nachos - yummy, and though not the best, could have been worse. I've discovered that it's really difficult to eat out (which is good for the budget). On the way to Blanco, our choices are really limited to fast food. Trey really wanted Whataburger, so I did my best to have the least of the bad. Again - not the worst, but not the best. All in all, I'm finding it better to try to eat at home as much as possible. Tonight we are going into Austin to have dinner with Clay and Kelly and celebrate Tom and Tina's 24th wedding anniversary. Wow - 24 years! That is definitely something to celebrate! It is so inspiring and amazing to see how much they love, admire, and respect each other after such a long time.

I'm getting really excited about my trip to California with mom. Well, first I have to work, but even that is always a good time - nice change of the routine, spending lots of time with the girls in the office and our reps at St. John (who are truly great to be around!) - it makes work not feel so much like work. Mom flies in on Friday (I work until Saturday afternoon), and then we head to LA for a few days of vacation - girl style! I'm so looking forward to spending some good time, just the 2 of us! We have some good things planned, and some open time to just do what we feel like at the time too. I get home on Wednesday, to spend the rest of the week of vacation with Trey and Madelyn. Ahh - heaven!

I'm learning

2008-07-23T17:47:00.000-07:00

This week I'm learning about... PRIORITIZING. If I have 21 points to use in one day, and I use 26 at lunch, then I don't get to eat dinner. Or at least nothing good. Oops! Oh well - lesson learned. But I did stick to it - I had salad, cucumber, and an english muffin for dinner. Only 2 points. Thank goodness for my 35 weekly additional points. Big bummer though if I use all of those by Tuesday!

At least I made it back to the gym this week. Tuesday night was my own cardio for 30 minutes and weight training for 30 points. It gives me 3 extra points, but I'm not counting any of my "activity" points - trying to keep those just plain incremental. Today I went back to step for the first time. I was REALLY nervous on my ankle, but I loved being back in class. I made it the entire hour (7 points - woohoo!!!) and only felt uneasy at one step - the lunges (where I twisted my ankle last time). I found a great ankle splint for extra support for a few months to make sure I don't have any problems.

Today, Trey went back to the doctor for a checkup on his toe. He got the stitches and the pin out. It looks GROSS! But the doctor was very happy with his progress so a week and half longer in the boot and then he may be back in normal shoes!

Life is all about...

2008-07-21T19:44:00.000-07:00

Life is all about... FRIENDS

Tonight, Trey and I had dinner with Mark and Michael. They were in town packing up their house (which they are very happy sold!), and getting the last of their Dallas lives moved to Portland.

Seeing Mark was bitter sweet. It made me realize just how much I miss being able to see him all the time. It's amazing where friends develop from, and I am so grateful that he is one of my greatest friends. It's such a wonderful feeling to have someone that you know will be there if you need them - whether a shoulder to cry on or for a laugh on the other end. And we sure do laugh! Both Mark and Michael looked great - happy, healthy, and adorable! There is something about Mark just being in town that gives me an energy. Anyway - we (Trey and I) both really enjoyed catching up and I especially loved being able to give a big hug to my friends!

Life is all about... BEING HEALTHY

Today I started weight watchers! (And then went out to a big dinner with friend - oy vey - not a good way to start!) But knowing I was going to dinner, I planned the rest of the day to have balanced, but low point options to "save" as many points as I could for tonight. I still went over, of course. But I tried to watch my portions, and at the end of day, I didn't do as bad as I could have! It's not easy - let me tell you, but the thing I like about weight watchers is that gives me options to try to stay within the plan, while still enjoying things like going out with friends. I still believe that I refuse to completely alter my life - I want to be able to go out to eat, have dessert if I want, or a not the best for you meal. But it means that I have to work around it. No more bad stuff for breakfast, lunch, and dinner!!! So, it's only been 1 day so far, but life is all about being healthy - so here I am trying! Wish me luck - I need all the help I can get.

Life is all about... NEW OPPORTUNITIES

Tomorrow Trey has a job interview - woohoo!! It's for a position still within Neiman Marcus, but at NM Direct (catalog and online). The position is a Manager over receiving and vendor compliance for 2 locations - NM Direct and Pinnacle Point (one of the distribution centers). The downside: it means we no longer commute together and therefore - no more HOV lane (bummer for me since I'll be the one going downtown still - and double bummer for me - no more naps on the way to or home from work!). The upside: It sounds like a great position for him - new challenges, new opportunities, new people. From what we know so far, it seems to be a great fit. And of course a promotion and more $$ is always a plus! So fingers crossed and well wishes for Trey!

Cheerleader = Cheer + Leader

2008-07-18T19:07:00.000-07:00

Tonight, April and I joined Lene, Dani, Michael, Margie, and Gina at SMU to see Jackie cheer. GO PIERCE GO!!! It was really cute. Jackie is at cheer camp, and today was their first full day. There were tons of schools there, and each one in their group (about 8 schools) had to get up in front of everyone and do 2 cheers they learned today. Some of them were really bad and very funny. But that being said, I know they were a hundred times better than I could have done and I completely admire these girls for getting up there in front of all these people to be critiqued by a panel of judges. Of course, Jackie's squad was the best. And although I am biased, I can honestly say it too. There were a few other schools that were really good, but I definitely thought they were the best. April was hilarious - she was a cheerleader in high school, and she totally gets into it! I asked Lene if she thought Jackie might just do this for a year and move on - sounds like no such luck. I'm trying, but I just can't get into the cheer thing. But I do love seeing my Jackie up there, and if she likes it, then more power to her and I'll love going to watch her! Just don't expect me to get all dolled up in Mustang wear and put ribbons in my hair! You laugh, but let me tell you... some of these moms are clearly reliving their youth through their daughters. Let's just say - a piece or work! It makes for some good people watching at least! I'll post some pictures once Lene sends them.

And did you know that a list of famous cheerleaders includes: Madonna, Paula Abdul, Robin Williams, Tom Hanks, Ronald Regan, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Dwight D. Eisenhower, George W. Bush, Meryl Streep, Steve Martin, Eddie Van Halen, Halle Berry, Cameron Diaz, Fergie, and Tina Turner - just to name a few.

2008-07-17T11:13:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been a hectic, busy week...

Sunday: I went to step class in the morning, and big bummer - twisted my ankle. I have to say I'm surprised it's taken this long. I've taken probably about 8 classes and have seen 4 people "fall" off their step. Now, I'm part of the statistic. I felt a little uneasy on it during class, and then about 3/4 of the way through, I stepped off wrong and completely fell on my tuchas! I would have been embarrassed, except for the fact that like I said, you are in the minority if you haven't fallen off the step. Of course April came darting over, and the instructor to make sure I was okay. I seriously thought I wasn't going to be able to walk on it. But someone else in our class brought me an ice pack, and I just sat out and watched the rest of class. It's doing much better now, but still pretty swollen and tender. I'm now looking for a good brace so I can get back to class, and protect from rolling on it.

Sunday afternoon Madelyn, Jennifer (her mom), Stephanie (her aunt), Hollie (her cousin), and I all had a girls afternoon. We went for ice cream (who doesn't love that!) and to see a play at the Dallas Children's Theater. We saw A Year With Frog and Toad. It was really cute, and we all had a great time visiting and spending a little girl time together. Madelyn was precious, and she and Hollie were SO happy to see each other! And she was super excited to see her mom. I really loved spending the time together - we're all very lucky to have each other and have such a great relationship. I think it's super cool that Madelyn has the situation she does, and that I can call Jennifer my friend. It was bitter sweet though, since it meant saying good bye to Mads for a few weeks. Although I am enjoying sleeping in a little later in the mornings again and not having to worry about getting her up and ready as well as myself! She has 2 weeks back in Waco with her mom and Terry and then 2 more weeks back with us. We had so much fun in our first set of summer time together. And Madelyn had a great surprise for her return back to moms... Klaus - their new puppy! She was SO excited - she just couldn't stand it! Jennifer sent a great picture of the two of them together - very sweet!

Monday: Monday started a busy week at work - getting ready for market, planning next season, blah, blah, blah. At least it's a good time to be getting busy since I don't have to jet out of work early to get Mads from camp. So, although it's busy, it's also been productive. Monday night, April and I went to Lene's to swim laps and get a little exercise in. I was nervous about kicking with my ankle, so I did about a mile's worth of laps primarily using my arms. Then Dani got home and jumped in, and the 3 of us played volleyball in the pool (well - at least our version of throwing the ball over the net) while Lene and Michael sat on the deck and visited. It was really nice and relaxing. I love going over there!

Tuesday: I spent the morning at the eye doctor. Yes - more doctors visits, but the more I can get in before August and the start of our new plan year, the better! I saw a new doctor and I really liked him, and the office. And since my primary doctor (who I love and referred me to the cardiologist I love) recommended him and goes to him personally - that's a plus. They seemed to be thorough, and listened to what my needs were. He seemed to be pretty knowledgeable of Lupus and the possible effects the disease is having on my eyes. And he knew my Rheumetologist so that made me feel good. All in all, my eyes look fine and he is having me try some things to help with the dryness. They are ordering me two different contacts to try, so hopefully I am getting back on track - we'll see. Tuesday night I got home from work to find April making dinner and having it almost on the table when I got home. It was really yummy and very cool to not have to worry about! I love having her around!

Wednesday: Another busy, but VERY productive day at work. It was my divisional's birthday. We love birthdays at work - any excuse for sweets!! We ordered Tiff's Treats - hot fresh cookies delivered to the office and I brought in a gallon of ice cream - YUMMY! Trey and I went to dinner with old friends we haven't seen in a really long time - Rachel and Craig. It was great to see them and catch up. Good food, Good company, Good times!

Thursday: Well, that brings us to today. This morning was a SUPER exciting event. The NM Best award. You see - there is this award that we do at Neiman Marcus every year. All of the associates nominate a person that they feel is THE BEST. It's the pinnacle award you can receive, because you are nominated by your peers. Then a select committee of judges who consist of previous winners, VPs, etc. all meet to discuss the nominations and make a final decision. Well, this year, my coworker was announced as NM Best. Dana SO deserved this award, and I am incredibly excited for and proud of her! She is amazing to work with I am so grateful that she is my friend! Congratulations Dana!

So that's it for now. I'm currently viewing a Lupus Live Chat about Lupus and UV Light. Maybe I'll learn something new!

K - I - S - S - I - N - G

2008-07-12T18:56:00.000-07:00

So today we went to Mindy's house to hang with the Tulbert - Federick clan, and swim. We had tons of fun!! Mo grilled burgers, I held precious Brady for a good while (man that baby is adorable!!), we all chatted and sat around being lazy together, and the kids swam for a good while and played together. We really had a great time. Especially Madelyn and Alex...

Madelyn and Alex were "caught" K-I-S-S-I-N-G. Well, actually Madelyn told on herself so I guess they weren't exactly caught. Madelyn said she kissed Alex on the cheek, and when I told her I thought she was a little young to be kissing boys, she replied with a very logical - "Well I liked it, and he liked it". (Some thought for future pondering: Is Daddy proud of his "mini-Trey" with her logical answer when it involves her kissing a boy?!) What do you say to that?? I didn't really know what to say, so I just gave it my best - well I still don't think you need to be kissing boys yet.

So then I was talking to Jennifer and Madelyn keeps saying in the background - tell mommy I kissed Alex on the cheek 4 times. I'm thinking - oh no - I'm not being the bearer of that news. It's bad enough I have to tell her dad, I don't want to have to tell her mom too! If there are 4 parents making a united front against this - does that give us a better chance of handling it well? I thought we'd have more time to figure this one out... I guess when we got the most talented, intelligent, advanced girl in the class - it meant not just in brains and wit, but in life too?!

So all of you that are reading this who have "been there, done that" - any advice? And those of you that are laughing at us because you're not there yet - just wait until it's your turn!

2008-07-11T18:16:00.001-07:00

Trey's surgery is complete and he did great. The actual surgery took only about 30 - 45 minutes, and we were at the hospital for only 3 1/2 hours. The hospital was really nice - they give you a pager like in a restaurant when you check in, and they use it to page you when the nurse is ready to take you back, when the Dr. was ready for me afterward, etc. It's quite fancy...

When Trey came out of surgery, the Dr. came to talk to me - let me know everything went well, etc. and take me back to recovery with him. Trey was HILARIOUS. I wish you could have been there to hear him... Apparently, when he started to wake up, the first thing he said to the nurse was "When can I eat?". She asked him what he wanted and he said Mountain Dew. Then she said - we have pudding and ice cream - do you want one? Trey says - Both. She asked him Chocolate or Vanilla. Trey says - Both. He downed 2 puddings, and a package of peanut butter crackers like he hadn't eaten in weeks. Then he kept asking me what was for dinner. He asked me 4 times - and every time got very excited when I said the same thing! Then he started rattling off other suggestions... Whataburger, Campisi's, Olive Garden, Babes - just to name a few. Oh - and he asked me what time it was about every 4 minutes... He was really very funny. The recovery nurse and I just kept laughing!!

Madelyn's last day of camp was filled with fun and games. She had a really great time and she was so excited about her t-shirt. She said that all the other kids just had ordinary shirts - only her's was special. Way to go Dad!

Super Dad

2008-07-10T21:14:00.000-07:00

This is a story I just couldn't wait until tomorrow to share...

So today I get a call at work from Trey, retelling a conversation he just had with Madelyn on the phone. It went something like this...

Trey (laughing): You'll never believe what "your" daughter just did.
Sarah: Oh no - what?!
Trey: She called me to tell me that the shirt she was supposed to take to camp to decorate today got left.
Sarah: No it didn't - I put it in her bag.
(Narration: On Monday, we got a notice that on Tuesday, Madelyn needed to bring a plain white t-shirt that could be decorated with her name / team name, etc. for this Friday's Olympic games against the other Plano camp).
Trey: Well, after a few minutes, I finally understood her that it got left at the other camp when they were told to bring it with them.
(Narration: On Tuesdays and Thursdays their camp goes to the other Plano location for swimming, and the counselors told the campers to bring their shirts with them - they were going to decorate them there.)
Trey: Apparently she doesn't understand English when the counselors told them to bring it with them and she thought she was supposed to leave it. So she didn't have it to decorate when all the other kids did at the other location.
Sarah: Oh no! (I'm thinking... "I'm so glad I rushed out to Walmart to get a plain white t-shirt that HAD to go to camp to be decorated the next day, for it not to get decorated the next day, or the next day, and then get forgotten on the day it was needed!" I'm also thinking... "Oh no - she can't be the only one not in her team shirt - that won't fly!!")
Trey: So Madelyn says... Daddy - I need you to decorate my shirt for me tonight. I need it to say "MSG" on the front, and the #12 on the front and the #12 on the back, and I need it for tomorrow. So, I told her that I'm not sure if I can or if we have the right things to do it, but I'll try.
(Narration: Well, you all know Madelyn - stubborn, relentless Madelyn. Who says... But Daddy, I really need you to. So, Trey tries to explain that he'll try, but he can't promise he'll be able to do it because he doesn't want to disappoint her if he can't do it, to which Madelyn says... But if you don't do it, I'll be disappointed. Like father, like daughter!).
Trey: So, do we have a permanent marker or something at home that will work?
Sarah: Yeah - you can just use a sharpie, or I can do it when we get home from the play.
Trey: Will that work?
Sarah: Well, you could go to Walmart and get some fabric markers in a few colors.
Trey: I don't want to go to Walmart - will anyone else have it?
Sarah: Michaels or Hobby Lobby - and then you can ask someone for the right thing - just tell them what you are doing.
Trey: I don't know where Michael's or Hobby Lobby are.
Sarah: Yes, you do. Michaels is in the same shopping center with Old Navy and Bed Bath and Beyond. At 15th and Alma - you can stop on your way home from work. And if you want - just get the markers and leave it for me and I'll do it when I get home so it's in pretty handwriting.
Trey: Gee - thanks. Is my handwriting that bad?

So, some time passes, and Trey calls me back...

Trey: I was telling the girls in my office about Madelyn's shirt dilemma, and they had a good idea... I can get those iron on letters and numbers and then not have to write it.
Sarah: Yeah - that's a great idea.
Trey: Do we have an iron?
Sarah: Yes!
Trey: Where is it?
Sarah: On the cart in the laundry room, with the detergent.

So, now it's 11:30, and Madelyn and I just got home a little bit ago from seeing High School Musical (which was great by the way!). You all have got to see this t-shirt! It has MSG in red varsity fabric letters, #12 in bold black professional looking #s. A huge sequin heart, sequin lips, and a beaded flower on the front - all beautifully, strategically placed. On the back is another bold black #12, a fabric sunflower, and an angel. He went so above and beyond, and Madelyn just loved it!!! She was so excited - hugging and saying that Daddy is the best Daddy in the world! And he is...

Although now this little camp project went from a quick trip and a $3 white t - shirt, to an extravaganza and another $25 at Michaels... But to see the smile on her face was so worth it. I'm so proud of her Daddy!

Random Updates

2008-07-10T11:07:00.000-07:00

So I went to the Dr. on Monday, and am really bummed that I'm going to have to stay on the steroids still longer than I expected. Some of you may not know that I had to go back on them after only a few weeks off. I was really upset, but what do you do? At least it was a smaller dose than I had been on. So I've been tapering yet again for the last several weeks, and I expected to be off again by late July. But it looks as though my Dr. wants to hold me at the low dose for about a month. That was to put me into the middle of August, when I have a followup visit with him. But, when I made my next appointment, they were able to squeeze me in a little early so I can get one more appointment in before our new insurance year starts. And you can bet I am trying to get as much in before our medical expenses start over again!

Tomorrow, Trey is having surgery on his foot / toe. Apparently, the tendon is too long for the rest of the toe (or the bone or something like that), so he is having surgery to have it straightened out. They have to shave off some of the bone, and put a pin in his toe - OUCH! It seems less painful to leave it the way it is. But after years of discomfort and annoyance from it, he is getting it fixed. And just in the nick of time!

We just got home from seeing High School Musical. It was awesome - Madelyn really enjoyed it!! She was so glued to the stage and every time I looked over at her - she was beaming! She was bebopping and dancing along in her seat. It was really great. Thanks Leenie for the fabulous tickets!

Action Packed

2008-07-10T10:40:00.001-07:00

Thank goodness it's almost Friday. I am EXHAUSTED! This week has been so filled with things (at least that makes it go by fast)...

This weekend we got April signed up on Match.com. She was very hesitant, but ultimately decided - what the heck. So she's giving it a try. We had a lot of fun creating her profile, and even more fun looking at others!! She's immediately got some "winks" and emails, and it's made for some good times!!! We haven't laughed this hard in a while. There are some really interesting (weird, crazy, scary, funny, odd) people out there. We did find a few cuties to contact so we'll see what happens. In the meantime, we decided it was cheaper than going to the comedy club and giving us just as much, if not more, good laughs. And you never know... At any rate, I so admire her bravery and laid back attitude - it's a scary world out there and she just keeps knocking down her barriers!!

Madelyn's last week at camp has been a busy and fun one. Yesterday they went to Six Flags. When I dropped her off in the morning and told her to have fun, one of the counselors said something about the rides. I told him she would ride anything and he said, "that's what they all say until we get there". I warned him - not Madelyn - she'll really will!! Well, sure enough when she got home she wasn't too happy that they wouldn't let her ride the biggest one because she wasn't tall enough! She is so fearless. It sounded like she really had a great time, though. April picked her up, and took her for ice cream after camp - spoiled rotten. They had a blast.

Last night we went to our weekly step class at the gym. I've really started to like this class, and the instructor, and I'm getting the steps down pretty well. Last week I had a really hard time with one step, and this week - I got it! The problem - our room was 80 degrees!!! RIDICULOUS! Tomorrow I'm doing another step class, Saturday is water aerobics, and Sunday is step. WOOHOO - that means I can eat ice cream this weekend!

Tonight April and I are taking Madelyn to see High School Musical as part of the Dallas Summer Musicals series. Lene and the girls didn't want to go, so she offered us her tickets. It's going to be a late night for the princess, but it is summer afterall, and this is a total treat for her. On Saturday we're going swimming at Mindy's with the Federick clan, and on Sunday we're going to see A Year With Frog and Toad at the Dallas Children's Theater - we're having a girls day with her mom, aunt, and cousin Hollie. It will be tons of fun! I think I need a day off next week just to recover from it all...

Lazy Days

2008-07-07T08:20:00.000-07:00

Well, much to my dismay, we never made it to the games this weekend. Bummer. But what a nice weekend of nothing. Don't ask me what we did all weekend - I'm not sure I could tell you. Well, that's not entirely true. I can tell you one thing we did... eat! We ate great food, and more great food, and junk food, and more junk food. Kim made Tres Leches for Treybaby - yummy! Mom made a low bad stuff strawberry shortcak - also yummy! We grilled all weekend (well to be more accurate, Trey grilled, but I seasoned.) It seemed like we ate all weekend. And we just hung out around the house, ran around some, watched a few movies, talked, etc. It was really nice. But I am really bummed we didn't get to the games...

We got home a decent time yesterday and went to Leenie's for some swimming. We ended up playing volleyball (well kind of - Lene and I against April and Madelyn), and before we knew it, it was 10:00!

This is going to be a busy week! The girls come home on Tuesday - YEAH! Madelyn's last week of camp... Trey is having minor surgery on his foot on Friday... I have lots of gym activity needed to work of this weekend's "extracuricular activities"... phew - I'm tired already!

just another day

2008-07-04T04:19:00.000-07:00

It's early. Really early. It's 6:00 in the morning - Happy 4th of July! We're already outside of Dallas, and headed to Houston. What was I thinking when I decided to get up early instead of driving last night?! But we're all excited to get away for a long weekend. I was packing some games last night to take with us, and I got a certain energy that I can't quite explain. I was reminded of being a kid and my family going to Hilltop lakes where my parents owned a small amount of property that gave us access to the "resort" there. It was (or I guess still is) very much a "Dirty Dancing" kind of resort... swimming, the lake, bingo, social mixers, etc. But my best memories are of everyone sitting around the table playing games. There was always lots of laughter - the only time I ever remember my father smiling or laughing (a little). Lene and Michael would meet us from Dallas, us from Houston (Hilltop is about halfway between), and that was our summer vacation. A couple of times my Uncle Ronnie brought his boat. There is a great picture somewhere of Mom, Lene, and I in coordinated black and neon yellow swimsuits. While I was in college, in a futile attempt at a relationship with Allan's father, we went back to Hilltop for a weekend. It was so different. I prefer to remember the way it was when I was a kid. Anyway - I'm excited about playing some games and hanging out with the family!

Well, the sun's coming up, and Madelyn has fallen back asleep - thank goodness. I was worried when she got in the car and started talking like crazy! It will be a long day if she doesn't get some more sleep. She is so cute all bundled under her blanket, still in her princess pajamas. This morning she brought some little nick nack things in the car, and said she was bringing some things to entertain Mia - she is such a good big cousin!

We got more letters from the girls, and now Madelyn got her very own from Dani. She was thrilled. The girls have done a great job of writing this year. We've gotten mail at least a few times a week. We just love hearing from them and how much fun they're having at camp. I wonder what cool 4th of July stuff they'll do at GFC - hmmm. They come home on Tuesday - woohooo!!

I think we're getting close to the Starbucks exit - thank goodness. I don't know how much longer I can wait.

I've been keeping up with Lindsey on her blog. Sounds like she is all settled in Moscow - well as settled as she can be for now. I'm so amazed by her - her ability to try new things and adventures. She's so brave!

Yesterday I went to Victoria's Secret for their semiannual sale. It's my time to stock up on panties while they are cheap. Well, what is cheap really? I managed to spend $160 on $2.99 panties. As April texted me back when I told her - holy %$@$ that's like 50 pairs. Well, 49 to be exact. Lindsey - do they have Victoria's Secret in Russia?

Well, we are in Ennis - Starbucks here I come. Have a happy, safe 4th to everyone!

2008-07-01T06:37:00.000-07:00

OMG - for those that don't speak text, that stands for "Oh My Goodness"! I made the mistake of telling my trainer last night that I haven't felt particularly strong in the arms. So we worked out arms. And more arms. And even more arms. By the time we were done they felt like spaghetti. But all in all, it was a great workout. I get surprised sometimes by my own stregnth, and by my lack of it. But you have to start somewhere, right?

Madelyn had a great day at camp, although she got into a little trouble with a counselor - oops. Apparently she hit another girl with her sweater (on accident, of course). But Madelyn said she didn't need to apologize because the other girl is mean anyway. We had a nice little talk about apologizing even if it's an accident. I asked her how she would feel is someone hurt her, even on accident, and she said she wouldn't mind. You just gotta love this age! Stubborn - just like her daddy! Today they go on their weekly field trip to Speed Zone - she was very excited when she woke up this morning. I can't wait to hear all about it when we pick her up. Tomorrow and Thursday are both swim days for them, and then it's off to Houston we go.

Yesterday, Madelyn got a letter from Jackie from camp. She was SUPER excited. Jackie wrote just to her - telling her how much fun camp is and that she can't wait to see her. And promising lots of swimming when she gets home. Madelyn thought she was so special to get her very own letter - it was really sweet. Trey and I each got a letter from Dani too - is it time for them to get home yet??

2008-06-30T12:18:00.001-07:00

Well, I've decided to join the latest fan fare, and start my own blog. I love going in to look at other's, so I thought why not. I assure you, it's not because my life is so interesting, or that I have so many people I simply can't keep in touch otherwise. But I figured, what better way to share news or pictures, or just talk about nothing at all.

So, here we go... Post 1.

We've entered week 2 of our summer with Madelyn. I'm having a ball, and am completely exhausted all at the same time! Madelyn is loving camp. She comes home singing and talking about games I've never heard of every day. And she comes home smelly - like outside. I can tell she is playing hard, and I love it. She's ready to go to bed when I say bedtime, so that should tell you so something! Last week their field trip was to Hawaiian Falls - a waterpark. You can bet she had a blast! This week they go to Speed Zone to ride go carts, play putt-putt, etc. She's very much looking forward to that. And next week is Six Flags - the ultimate send off for her last week of camp. After a few weeks back with her mom, she goes to Blanco with Grammy and Grandad, and then a week with Daddy and Rarah. I have to get thinking on what we're going to do to fill that time. Otherwise, we end up being just plain lazy. Thank goodness the girls will be home from camp by then.

And speaking of the girls - I'm counting down until they are home! It's so funny how I could go a few weeks without seeing them and be fine, but when they are gone and I CAN'T see them, I miss them so much!!! They've been gone only over a week, and it feels like an eternity. And Madelyn is VERY ready for her big cousins to be home too!

This past weekend was a lazy one - not too much going on. Saturday was water aerobics in the morning, followed by errands and general nothingness. Ash came over for dinner and we all just hung out. Sunday was step class in the morning - that was a tough one, but I stuck it out for the whole hour and was really proud of myself. I look like a fool next to April - who has it down like a rockstar, but she keeps me motivated to keep going. The rest of Sunday was more laziness for us all. Tonight I have session 4 with my trainer - and afterward only 4 more to go. When am I going to start noticing results - hmmm?!

This weekend we head to Houston for the 4th of July. A long weekend with Bubbe and my Mia - woohoo!! Not sure what we have planned, but whatever it is will be fun. And a short work week is always a good thing. Madelyn is very excited to see her Bubbe and spend some time with her cousin. We're all looking forward to it.