Don't Give Him Crackers!

Happy 1st Birthday, Lucas!

2012-01-11T07:14:00.001-05:00

My dear sweet Lucas,

I can't believe a year has passed since we heard your first cry. What a fast year it has been! You have gone from a 9lb 1oz baby to a toddling 26lb 7oz little boy. You still love your paci and haven't yet given up the bottle, but you are growing into a smart little boy.

You are such a huge blessing to our family! Your sweet smile and demeanor are contagious. You are so curious and are always trying to get everything in your hands. You adore your big brother and try to do anything he does.

You love to dance or your version of dancing, bouncing up and down! You love to play pat-a-cake. I can just say the word and you immediately begin to clap your hands. You love to play with cars and balls. If you can crawl after something you love it. However, I venture to say that pots and pans are your favorite toys.

Needless to say you are always on the move. You like to climb up the stairs, but will wait on the 4th step until we come behind you because you want us to "chase" you. When we come to the stairs, you grin from ear to ear and begin to climb the steps as quickly as you can while looking to see if we are following you.

You are such a flirt! You will flash those baby blue eyes with a sweet smile and women everywhere melt. You crack me up when you tilt your head and raise your shoulders when you are trying to get away with something. How do you know to do this already? I'm blaming daycare. ;)

I once heard that you can measure the amount someone is loved/liked by the number of nicknames they have. If that is true, you are a very loved little boy, "Lukie Loo," "Lucky Luke," "Lucas Mucas" (as Daddy so affectionately calls you), "Bubba," and more recently, "L. Reed."

You are my baby boy and always will be. I am so excited to see what the next year brings and I am thrilled to be your Mommy.

Happy 1st Birthday, Lucas Reed!

Love,
Mommy, Daddy, and Jacob

Happy 6th Birthday, Jacob!

2011-10-05T06:00:00.000-05:00

Today you turn 6. Wow! I can't believe that little (or not so little) baby with the red hair is now so tall and handsome. But it is true, you are growing up quickly. This year has been a very eventful year for you.

You became a big brother in January! Lucas has been a blessing in our lives and even though I'm not sure you acknowledge it now, he is a big blessing in your life. He loves watching his brother play and I'm sure in a couple more months he will be trying to play with you.

You participated on your first sports team. You showed an interest in soccer when we watched your cousin play last fall and I knew when the spring season came around we needed to register you. Although, your enthusiasm lessened when you realized there were rules and you couldn't wander off the field or pick at the grass, you stuck it out and I am proud of you!

You started Kindergarten! I had a lot of worry about how you would transition to Kindergarten from pre-school, but you were marvelous! You were very excited when we first visited the school to register, but as we approached the building I recall you asking me if I was leaving you there. I felt your excitment and your trepidation as if it was my own. I know it is difficult for you to make changes in your routine and I am thrilled that you have made this change so well.

I'm in love with your laugh and your pure joy. This past Saturday you woke up on the "silly" side of the bed (at 5:30a.m. -- could you please sleep a little later, especially on the weekends? Please? Is it too much to ask?). You laughed and squealed and found everything hilarious! From calling your cousin the wrong name to a cartoon you had seen numerous times before -- life was just funny to you.

Thank you for making me a Mommy and for being such a blessing in our lives. Even if I may not remember that at 5:30 in the morning!

We love you!

Mommy, Daddy and Lucas

Our Life with Autism

2011-06-10T07:47:00.000-05:00

I know I have not been blogging much lately and I haven't forgot about the pictures I promised to post. I'll get around to it eventually...maybe! :)

Today, I've been inspired to get out of my blogging silence by Kelly Korner's Show Us Your Life topic. Today's topic is Special Needs Families. I have touched on it slightly off and on over the years; however, late last year we received an official diagnosis of Autism for Hoss. We are facing this with our heads up. Luckily for Hoss, my job profession has given me knowledge about Autism and I am familiar with resources and supports available in my area. However, the fear of the unknown is the biggest worry. I strive to find and listen to more experienced parents and what has worked for them as their children have faced obstacles and challenges. Hopefully I will find more through this post!

Below is a post I wrote about Hoss in September 2010, before the official diagnosis. He still melts my heart!

He turns five in a couple weeks. He is a cuddler, loves to have big bear hugs and sleep snuggled up close to someone. His red hair and blue eyes positioned behind adorable oval framed glasses make him an instant charmer. He is very tall for his 5 years and all his teachers talk about how much he grew over the summer.

Just glancing at him, he is a typical boy with bruises on his legs from climbing, dirt under his fingernails from digging and a superhero action figure in his hand. He sings along with the music on the radio and has very specific preferences in what music he likes.

However, “typical” is not a word textbooks would use to describe him. Instead, textbooks would likely describe him as autistic. See, this little boy does not make eye contact, he seldom initiates conversation, he mumbles and sings to himself and he can not name any friends.

Well, except for his best friend, his mommy. That’s right. He tells everyone his best friend is “Mommy.” This makes his mommy’s heart melt every time he says it and recently that has been daily.

Being his mommy is an extremely difficult task. Mommies have dreams for their children, hopes for a better life. This little boy’s mommy has recently realized these dreams will be much more difficult for her little boy to accomplish. While, his mommy still believes he can do great and marvelous things, it pains her to see him struggle daily to try.

Despite these struggles, this little boy is perfect in his mommy’s eyes. I know because he’s my little boy.

The Birth Story

2011-04-20T07:48:00.000-05:00

I began writing Lucas' birth story in January, then again in February and March and now here it is April. Everytime I attempted to write I would get distracted by a crying baby or a 5 year old. Let's hope I can finally get the story done and that I can remember all the details! :)

Here goes! The story of Baby Lucas' Birth.

Because of my history of having a large child (Hoss weighed 10lb 5oz) and Lucas' ultrasound at 33 weeks showing he was following in his brother's footsteps, we scheduled a repeat c-section for January 11th.

We had a snow storm the night before and had a few inches of snow on the ground. My parents, Gigi and Grandpa, came to our house the night before in order to be at the hospital for Lucas' arrival and to wrangle Jacob during the c-section.

The morning of the c-section was typical. We left at 10a.m. in order to get to the hospital and finalize some paperwork. Once that was done I answered a million questions about my health history, changed into the attractive hospital gown and prepared for all the fun that lies ahead.

My mom came in when they arrived and sat with Donnie and me. About this time, the nurse began to put in my IV. I always say one of the worst parts of the entire c-section experience with Jacob was the IV. So, I had some anxiety about this part. I also have a history of passing out during blood draws and similar procedures. As the nurse was putting the needle into my hand I could tell I was starting to experience some anxiety. My mom was trying to distract me by telling me about a story...it didn't work. I completely blacked out, soon after the nurse told me that she may have to stick me again (she didn't, she was able to get the first stick to work). My husband tells me my eyes rolled back in my head, I began to make a snoring type noise and twitched slightly. I think it was scarier to watch than what actually happened.

I remember when I began to regain consciousness, I could hear the nurse calling for back up, asking for ammonia. I didn't need the ammonia, but my reputation spread quickly. When it came time to head back to the operating room, the anesthesiologist came in and discussed the spinal and told me he was going to give me some medicine to help me during the procedure, so I wouldn't pass out. Apparently the medicine he gave me forced me to "fall asleep" for a few minutes. I remember him telling me he was putting the medication into my IV, leaning over the side of the table with the nurse in front of me, then waking up lying on the table, ready for surgery and completely numb.

The c-section went as planned. Lucas was born at 12:30p.m. weighing 9lbs 1 oz, measuring 21 3/4 inches (a bit smaller than his big brother!). He did not immediately cry as he had inhaled a large amount of amniotic fluid, but after much suctioning by the doctors and nurses he began to cry. And it was the cry that could pierce eardrums. Shew! He was so loud and definitely made his prescence known. Donnie went with Lucas to the nursery while the doctors finished up my c-section.

Soon after they left the room, my face began to itch. I mentioned it to the anesthesiologist and he said it was likely from the morphine they put in my spinal. The longer I laid there, the more I itched. It was torture!

As soon as I was put back together, I went to recovery where I got to hold Lucas for the first time. He did not have the red hair like his big brother, but he has the beautiful big blue eyes. A few minutes later the nursery took Lucas back in order to bathe him and I was moved to my room.

As they began to move me to my room I began to feel sick to my stomach. I was able to keep it together, but we stopped moving for a minute and I received the nice pink puke bucket to accompany me. Once I made it to my room, the visitors arrived. Gigi and Grandpa brought big brother Jacob in to visit and my in-laws also stopped by to see little Lucas.

About an hour after being in my room, I began to feel sick to my stomach again. This time I couldn't keep it together and the room full of people quickly cleared out! The nurse was able to give me anti-nausea medicine which kept everything stable, but I had to remain on a liquid diet a bit longer.

Everything settled down and more visitors arrived to see Lucas. He was a very popular little boy! As the night moved along, I began to experience the post c-section pains and the itching I experienced from the morphine continued, but only more severe. Luckily, there is magic medicine to help with itching and this was very helpful; however, I got to enjoy the itching for a couple more days until all the medicine was out of my body.

My hospital stay was great. The nurses were wonderful; very friendly and helpful. Lucas was a great baby, sleeping a lot and easy to satisfy. The last day we were at the hospital, my husband and I got to enjoy a special steak dinner to celebrate Lucas' arrival! We got to go home on Friday. I wasn't sure I was ready because I was in a lot of pain still, but by Sunday I was a new women, pain free and ready to tackle the joys of parenting 2 boys!

I'm still here!

2011-04-19T14:18:00.000-05:00

Whew! Has it really been 3 MONTHS since I last wrote a blog post? I never planned to abandon my blog writing after having Lucas, but I have found being a mother of 2 keeps me much busier than I expected. By the end of the day when I finally have a few minutes to myself, my brain is no longer able to throw words together to write a coherent blog post.

Life has been going well. I returned to work 2 weeks ago and that transition has been great. My husband took a 12 week family medical leave from work and is staying home with both boys now. I think he is starting to have more compassion for me and mothers in general. He is doing a wonderful job caring for the boys and I'm proud he's my husband!

Once he returns to work in late June, little Lucas will be attending daycare. Jacob will have 6 weeks before he starts Kindergarten (this transition is hurting his Momma's heart!) so he is going to be hanging out with grandparents, attending a camp and playing with friends during those 6 weeks.

Lucas is doing great. Growing like a weed! Gosh, he's stinkin' cute! And getting so big! I will post pictures soon. No, really, I will. I am just not on a computer that has pictures saved.

Well, that's about all I have for today. I started Lucas' birth story waaaaayyyy back in January and it is not done. I hope to tackle that this week. :)

He's Here!

2011-01-16T18:37:00.006-05:00

Introducing Lucas Reed Frye born Jan. 11, 2011, weighing 9lbs 1oz, 21 3/4 inches long. He has a head full of blondish brown hair. I hope to get back this week to write out the birth story -- not much drama, but details I want to remember.

Big Brother & Little Brother

Kissing Baby Brother

Sleepy Boy

Baby Watch -- Week 39

2011-01-10T16:42:00.002-05:00

This is it. The last blog post before Baby Boy is born. Tomorrow is the big day. We should have a new son by 1p.m. My c-section is scheduled for 12p.m. and I have to be at the hospital at 10a.m. for all the fun prep.

This week has gone well. I was prescribed a Z-pack for my cold, which has improved greatly. I still have an occassional cough, which I definitely do NOT want to have tomorrow after the c-section. I'm hoping that disappears!

We are also hoping the weather cooperates for us. There is prediction of snow; however, it looks like we might be getting a lighter amount than most others. I'm definitely looking forward to a small amount, don't want to have to walk to the hospital, but I will if needed. :)

Baby Boy is growing. I believed he was definitely going to be smaller than his big brother (who was 10lb 5oz at birth) until 2 days ago. My stomach suddenly looks like it grew 12 inches, plus baby boy is wearing me out. The energy level is dropping quickly.

So, tomorrow is the big day! I'm both excited and nervous! Hoping for a speedy recovery -- that's what I dread most. Wish me luck!

Baby Watch -- Week 38

2011-01-04T08:15:00.002-05:00

So, last week I was worried about the sprained ankle. Yeah, so that was NOTHING (and has completely healed)! Because the next day I developed possibly the worst cold I have had in years. Hoss and Hubby had both been sick, but not horribly so and typically my body fights off those germs, but I guess my body is currently too busy growing a baby and not able to fight off cold germs.

All of that to say, I've been miserable during week 38. Thankfully my OB gave me a Z-pack yesterday and I think it may be helping the cold already. I am still having to blow my nose 75% of the day, but I am able to do so without coughing fits and headaches accompanying.

And let's just say, when you are 38 weeks pregnant coughing and sneezing does nothing for your already compromised bladder. Well, nothing other than cause the bladder to leak. UGH!

However, despite the illness I am beyond thrilled to say that this time next week I will be fasting and preparing to go to the hospital to have this baby. I can't believe the time is here. I'm very excited to see him and to hold him and to watch him develop his little personality. And, of course, I am nervous about if he will be healthy, how Hoss will handle the transition to Big Brother status, and how this little bundle of joy is going to change our day to day life and schedule.

The time is approaching quickly...and it's oh so exciting!

Baby Watch -- Week 37

2010-12-28T08:52:00.002-05:00

I hope everyone had a great Christmas! Our Christmas was nice and relaxing. My parents came over on the 23rd to celebrate with us and boy were we spoiled! Even Baby Frye got lots of presents.

I was a major procrastinator this year with shopping so I spent several hours on the 22nd and 23rd finishing up my shopping. Then, in a lapse of better judgment I took Hoss to Kroger on Christmas Eve. It wasn't horrible, but it was a tiresome trip.

Christmas day Hoss woke up coughing at 6:15 a.m., so we got an early start to our day. After medicating the kiddo, we opened gifts and then I made breakfast. Around lunchtime we went to my in-laws and celebrated Christmas with them.

We had a great time. That is until I sprained my ankle leaving my in-laws' house. I did NOT fall, but somehow my ankle rolled when I was walking to the car. I can't explain how it happened, but I know I felt popping. My poor husband had to deal with my freak out at this point. I have a tendency to over-react when I get hurt. Especially when there is instant pain and swelling. So I immediately began to feel light headed and hot, but once I got in the car, I calmed down; however, my ankle was a nice swollen mess by the time we got home.

The injury gave me an excuse to do nothing else the rest of Christmas! I sat on the couch with my ankle propped with a bag of ice. The swelling did not get any worse and I was able to hobble around the house fairly well. The next morning there was minor bruising, but otherwise I have survived the injury just fine.

I had my 37 week check up yesterday and everything looked good. Still have a big baby who the doctor said appears to be "nice and comfortable." He hasn't dropped and I am still not dilated, so he likely is waiting for his 1/11/11 birthday.

I've noticed a little less movement from him in recent days. I think this is because of his size as he doesn't have much room to move. I'm trying not to freak myself out about it and definitely am mindful of every time he moves.

This week I am planning to get the Christmas decorations put away and start moving baby items from their hiding places into the living areas of the home to get ready. Only 14 days to go!

Baby Watch -- Week 36

2010-12-20T09:21:00.004-05:00

Don't panic, all is well. I thought I set this to auto post, but something must not have worked. So here it is!

Oh my word...this baby is large and in charge! He is hurting me all over. In my sides, back and well, ya know.

I had my 36 week appointment yesterday and he is no longer breech; however, he is still HUGE, so we are sticking with our 1/11/11 c-section. Now, if he decides to come earlier then we will see what happens, but if he's not here by the 11th, he'll be getting some help to enter the world. I was not dialated, so he doesn't seem to be in too much of a hurry.

Which is fine, I'm not quite ready for him. I keep telling myself I'm waiting until after Christmas to get serious about getting ready. The nesting is starting to kick in slightly, but I have so many other things going on I don't have time to nest.

Even though my house may not be ready for him, my body is definitely ready. The pain is starting to be a bit much; however, after this week of Christmas festivities, I'm hoping life will settle down a bit and I'll be able to get some rest. Although, my plans to nest may not allow much resting.

I had an extremely busy weekend, which may be part of the cause of the pains. We had our children's Christmas program Sunday evening and somehow I volunteered to head up the 1st grade and up performance. Yeah, I definitely was not 36 weeks pregnant when I agreed to do that. Needless to say, I was busy Saturday with dress rehearsal and then Sunday with the last minute preparations and performance. But everything went great and I'm beyond relieved that it is over!

Plus, Saturday evening the hubby and I went to a UK basketball game. My husband won the tickets at work Friday and even though we had a busy weekend, I will NEVER turn down an opportunity to see the Wildcats in action live! Hoss was able to spend the night with the grandparents that night since it was a late game. However, even though I got to sleep in (slightly -- does 8a.m. count as sleeping in?), staying up until after midnight doesn't fare well for a 3rd trimester Momma.

So, the summary of week 36 is this -- I'm tired, sore, achy and busy. However, I'm very excited for Baby Boy's arrival and I'm counting down the days -- 21 left!

Baby Watch -- Week 35

2010-12-13T11:34:00.002-05:00

I have one complaint this week and it has little to do with pregnancy -- SNOW! We received 4-5 inches of snow over the past couple days.

My dear Hoss isn't a fan either, but my issues venture more toward safety. I'm not real great with balance -- pregnant or not -- and all the snow and slippery weather we have had the past couple weeks is not helping! Luckily, I have not experienced any falls -- yet!

I fell twice with Hoss, the last time 2 days before I had him and I landed right on my stomach. That experience is still traumatic to me. Even though it appears it didn't cause harm to Hoss -- I spent that entire day in the hospital being monitored -- I still worry. I don't want to fall.

So, this weather is not helping. Trust me, I am taking is slowly, taking small steps, and watching for ice or slick areas. I used to always make fun of my mom about her fear of falling in slick weather -- mostly I would make fun of the fact that she would always grab on to my arm to help balance when I'm more likely the one who would fall. Now I need to apologize to my mom for making fun of her because I'm the one who is terrified of falling!

Other than the fear of falling, everything else is going well. I keep "forgeting" (not really) I'm pregnant and do too much standing on my feet. This past Saturday I spent the afternoon baking Christmas goodies. By the time I was done I could barely stand any longer -- my back and hips ached horribly. I definitely can feel it when I overdo it.

Although, I'm starting to experience pains after sitting too long as well. And even WHILE sitting. One interesting thing I never experienced while pregnant with Hoss, is feeling the baby kick/hit my pelvic bones. Hoss never dropped low and was stuck very high up, so this is a new experience for me. It's an interesting experience.

We'll just leave it at that! :)

Baby Watch -- Week 34

2010-12-07T10:00:00.001-05:00

We are another week closer to the arrival of Baby Frye! And I sure am glad!

I had another doctor's appointment yesterday and all was well. Baby is still big, but the doctor thought he might have turned around and is no longer breech. That was her guess, but we there is no definite proof of that. Unless you count the horrific pain I've experienced over the last week as the little one turning.

I asked Donnie if he remembers me complaining about pain with Hoss and he chuckled. It's amazing how we mothers can block out all the bad stuff from one pregnancy to the next. He said he remembers me sitting with my hugely swollen feet (so glad I don't have those this time...yet!) propped up and complaining about how "this child is sitting right on top of me." Meaning, he was so high up (and so huge), it was like he was sitting on my chest.

This time I'm complaining about side, back and lower abdominal pain from "this child." He's sitting much lower (but is still huge!) and is enjoying punching, kicking and pushing forcefully, which is not pleasant when you have a full bladder!

In other pregnancy news, I was thinking about what cravings I've had with this pregnancy and I can't think of any. I'm just excited about eating food -- all food (and the scales are telling that tale loud and clear). I have enjoyed sweets, mostly chocolate; however, I wouldn't say I'm craving them. The most I could come up with craving-wise is spicy foods, especially Mexican. But that gives me a little bit of heartburn, so I'm avoid those. Otherwise, I'm just enjoying eating!

And on that note, I'm off to eat some lunch...or something like that!

Baby Watch -- Week 33

2010-11-30T08:16:00.001-05:00

We had a great Thanksgiving as we visited with family! We traveled to my parents' home to celebrate. Hoss and I were able to stay a few extra days, but Donnie had to return home due to work responsibilities.

We celebrated my niece and nephew's birthdays and also had a family baby shower for me on Thursday evening. The shower was wonderful and I have some very gracious, giving family members! (Now we just need to organize/assemble everything!)

I had some pregnancy hallucinations and went to Wal-Mart at midnight on Black Friday. 8 months pregnant, fighting crowds for a few good deals and standing in line for over 30 minutes -- it definitely was not worth it. My dad was my chauffeur and if I had gone alone it would have been horrible with the snow and parking situation.

We were in and out in an hour, mostly due to my pure exhaustion. I completely overdid it and Baby Boy was letting me know. I went home and slept, only to go back out later on Black Friday -- then I went back home and napped!

The rest of my weekend was rather busy as well. Hoss and I traveled home on Saturday and when I got home my wonderful husband had pulled out the Christmas decorations and set up some of them. Since my husband is a bit of a grinch when it comes to Christmas, I knew he really was going out of his way to do this. And I really appreciated it! I spent Saturday evening finishing up the Christmas decorating. Sunday was busy with church, going to see the movie "Tangled" (which was very cute!) and then my nephew's 6th birthday party. I was happy to return to work on Monday just so I could rest a bit!

I feel tired from all the activities and things going on around me, but I have a mental to-do list a mile long that needs to happen in the next 5 to 6 weeks, plus all the holiday activities. I'm tired just thinking about it! But, it will all get done, it always does and I will try to rest in between!

Baby Watch -- Week 32

2010-11-23T07:54:00.002-05:00

Apparently this little boy thinks he needs to compete with his big brother in the weight category. Hoss was 10lb 5oz at birth. This little one is not so little it seems. My ultrasound yesterday showed that my 32 week baby is measuring 35 1/2 weeks and is weighing in just over 6 pounds. People, my niece weighed less than that at birth! Heaven help me!

Since this baby is growing so quickly and does not appear to be stopping, we scheduled a c-section yesterday. So, 7 weeks from today, on January 11th, this baby boy will be born...that is if my body can hold in another huge baby that long. (I got to pick the day and I chose 1/11/11 purposefully! My c-section is scheduled for noon. I'm secretly hoping we get a late start and he is born at 1:11p.m. However, he is NOT allowed to weigh 11 lb 11oz).

Despite being big, Baby Boy is also breech, like his brother. He must really like his big brother because he sure is following his lead.

I've decided that being 5 years older and having another large baby is not working out for me. I don't remember the aches and pains in my hips when I was pregnant with Hoss as I am experiencing now. Other than that I don't have many complaints.

Well, except for the fact that my face looks like a 14 year old boy's as the acne is OUT OF CONTROL! I guess my hormones are on overload as my body is growing this HUGE child.

However, I am very thankful I have a growing, healthy baby (with chubby cheeks and fuzzy hair!). I would suffer through the pains and annoyances a million times over to get to be a Mommy!

I hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving this week!

Baby Watch -- Week 31

2010-11-16T07:30:00.001-05:00

The 3rd trimester is definitely here and I can feel it. This week I have experienced heartburn (so glad it has waited this long! It was horrible with Hoss.), fatigue (or more like a complete lack of energy), and aches and pains (mostly when I'm attempting to sleep which may explain some of the fatigue).

Oh, and I'm HOT all the time! Yesterday morning the temperature was 28 degrees when I left the house. I grabbed a sweater on my way out the door and actually thought -- this isn't that cold. I stopped and got a hot chocolate at the convenience store on my way to work (all sizes are 99 cents on Mondays!). As I drank that hot chocolate I just got hotter and hotter -- I almost started sweating! So glad it is cooler outside, otherwise I'd be a miserable mess right now!

I am starting to believe my doctor about the "big baby" diagnosis. This boy is growing like a weed, thus my belly is growing just the same. Again, this may be the cause for the above troubles. I'm anxiously anticipating my ultrasound next Monday which will determine just how big this kiddo is and help us to determine the birth plan. That c-section is starting to look more appealing.

Baby Watch -- Week 30

2010-11-09T06:30:00.003-05:00

I've been sentimental this week, reminiscing about the days of Baby Hoss. I am excited to get to relive the adorable chubby fat rolls and all the 1st again -- 1st steps, 1st words, 1st solid foods, and on and on....

This got me wondering who Hoss looks more like and what this Baby Boy (who will be arriving in 10 weeks!) will look like. I think Hoss is a pretty good combination of my husband and me. He has my husband's eyes -- color and shape, but a lot of my facial features, like my nose, mouth, etc. Although, after looking at the pictures below I think he looks a lot more like my husband.

What do you think?

Husband:

Me:

Hoss:

Look at all 3 of us showing off our 2 bottom teeth! :)

In other news, my 30 week appointment showed that Baby Boy is trying to give Hoss a run for his money in the weight category. My belly measured 34 1/2 weeks. Um, I should only be 30 weeks! YIKES! I have an ultrasound on the 22nd at my next appointment to see just how big this kiddo is. That VBAC is not looking so promising now.

Giveaways!!!

2010-11-08T11:03:00.002-05:00

I can't pass up a good contest to win something, so I wanted to share about the Christmas Giveaway going on at 5 Minutes for Mom. The contest begins today and goes through Nov. 30th.

I hate that Christmas sneaks up so quickly and commercialism always seems to want to skip the Thanksgiving season, but I'm starting to get into the gift giving spirit (plus, the stroller up for grabs in today's giveaway is enticing me!).

You can go enter as well, just click on the button or visit 5 Minutes for Mom.

Each prize given away to a winner will also be given to a family in need through the Under the Tree promotion. Check it out as well!

Merry Christmas!

2010-11-07T19:40:00.001-05:00

Tiny Trio Forest Christmas Card

Make a statement with custom Christmas cards at Shutterfly.

View the entire collection of cards.

I can't wait to have another one!!!!!!

2010-11-04T11:04:00.007-05:00

Be still my heart!

Baby Watch -- Week 29

2010-11-02T07:31:00.002-05:00

The hormones have lessened, slightly. I'm trying to rein them in, but as we all know, that can be very difficult. I don't like feeling as if I don't have control and these hormones are making me feel as if I'm losing control.

Otherwise, life is treking on. Baby Boy is growing and growing. I have noticed a change in the belly region over the past few weeks and I am finally looking pregnant instead of just fat! :) Hopefully I will get a good belly shot this week and post that for you all next week.

My mom came over this past weekend and helped clean around my house. She did all those chores I hate doing, like cleaning the blinds and cleaning the carpets! I am so grateful for her help! Now I just need to do some major cleaning in the kitchen and organizing the baby items and we will be set.

A great friend very kindly purchased us a stroller and car seat combo at a local Goodwill. It is this one and he paid 90% less than the retail price. It is only a year old and in great condition! I was thrilled! We just need to get a second carseat base and we will be set!

So, thanks to great friends and family, we have been very blessed this week!

My favorite Christmas cards!

2010-11-02T07:15:00.004-05:00

I have always enjoyed sending Christmas cards and showing off my adorable red headed kiddo to my friends and family. Since having Hoss I have opted for photo Christmas cards. I have purchased the cards in which you put a photo on the front, I have included photos inside traditional Christmas cards and I have made photo cards.

By far, I prefer the photo cards. I enjoy designing these cards from the options available at the websites online. My favorite photo gift and card design website is Shutterfly.

I am planning on using this card for our family cards this year. It meets my main requirement for Christmas cards -- it says "Merry Christmas!" Plus, I can choose multiple pictures of Hoss through the year and possibly include an ultrasound picture of our newest family member. There are numerous other cards, both the flat photo cards and traditional folded photo cards. Check them all out here and here. You never know, I may be using one of these announcements for Christmas cards instead -- that is if this little one decides to come as an early Christmas gift!

Shutterfly is offering 20% off all holiday cards for everyone!

I am an avid user of Shutterfly for all photo needs -- gifts, prints and Christmas cards. I have been offered 50 free cards for compensation for this post. If you are a blogger you too could receive this same offer. Check out the information and request form here. And also be sure to check out Shutterfly on Twitter and Facebook.

Baby Watch -- Week 28

2010-10-26T07:30:00.000-05:00

One word about this week -- HORMONES!

My mood is really starting to be affected and I can't stand it. It is as if I am permanently experiencing the worst PMS ever. One second I am fight back tears, the next I am madder than a hornet! And my brain is constantly saying, "Stop! Don't act like that!" But, I can't stop. I spew from the mouth horrible things, I shed the tears over silly things. I can't stand it.

Yesterday morning started off poorly. Hoss is fighting a cold, which has spread to a cough and is mostly in his chest. He isn't running a fever and appears okay, but he is having trouble sleeping. He had nightmares the night prior and did not get a good night's sleep, so he definitely was not ready to get out of bed when it was time which put us behind and put me in a horrible mood as I was barking orders to everyone in the house to hurry up.

Hoss also had a small performance at his daycare yesterday in which he had to wear a white shirt. I went to Wal-Mart Sunday evening to purchase a white shirt since he didn't have one and spent money that was budgeted for something else.

Hoss wore his brand new white shirt to daycare yesterday morning and before the performance, it is ruined. He spilled yogurt all over it during breakfast, thus he had to wear his blue basketball "spare" shirt. Not the white shirt like everyone else in his class. All of that effort for nothing. The hormones did not do well with that.

I was upset that Hoss would once again be different than everyone else, as if he needs to stands out any more, so the tears welled up in my eyes. Then I was mad. Mad at my 5 year old for being clumsy and spilling something. That just led to me being mad at myself for even considering being mad at Hoss....he's just being 5, it really isn't his fault. Plus I was mad that I was so emotional over something so silly like spilled yogurt.

I quickly gathered myself together and settled in for the performance. However, when Hoss spotted me in the crowd, he grinned ear to ear and was obviously thrilled just to see me. Naturally, the tears came again. Good grief!

Then, last night as I was telling my husband about the performance as he was watching the video I took, I began to cry again. Just recalling the emotions I had earlier in the day did me in again.

So, needless to say, the hormones are flairing up. And I'm done with them. DONE!

Baby Watch -- Week 27

2010-10-20T07:24:00.002-05:00

This week has been a productive one. We have the crib together and I have organized some of the baby items. It is odd that my home is starting to look like a baby is living there. I haven't seen baby things around my home in a long time. It's exciting and also a little scary. This is really happening, in 12 1/2 weeks or less (hopefully not more!).

Hoss is starting to recognize the changes around the house too. We have had a discussion about the crib being for his baby brother, not for him, although I still half expect to find him in it one day. Hoss will be getting new bunk beds in a week or so courtesy of his Gigi and Grandpa. Hopefully this will dissuade his desire to scale the crib.

Although, sharing his closet with baby brother's stuff is sparking some concern. The other day Hoss came downstairs dressed in a pair of 3-6 month shorts. I'm not sure how he actually managed to get them on his body, but he looked as if he was wearing a pair of speedos. Hoss is used to everything kid related in our home being only his. I think he's in for a rude awakening.

On another note, the pregnancy clumsiness set in this week. My ankle rolled on Monday and caused me to fall to my knee. I was holding Hoss's hand and pulled him down with me, but we were otherwise fine. I barely scraped my knee and felt there was no reason for concern. Plus baby is as active as ever. Let's hope this is the last fall I experience with this one. I don't need the scary falls I had with Hoss.

We have finalized a name. I think. Ok, so it is final. A few compromises were made, but it is good. Hoss is aware of his baby brother's name and is happy with it. I'll announce his name here when he is born.

Friday I go for the one hour glucose test. I'm hoping to pass with flying colors. I'm trying to get through this pregnancy with as little drama as possible!

Baby Watch -- Week 26

2010-10-13T12:55:00.002-05:00

Whew! I had an interesting past couple days. I have been experiencing pain in my left side off and on. It seemed to be related to what I was eating and I believe it is colon related. Well, last night it reached the worst point. I could hardly stand the pain and it was continuing to escalate and worsen.

I still thought it was colon related and possibly due to eating greasier and higher fiber foods. The pain stayed put and never moved so I didn't think it was anything pregnancy related. I suffered through the night, tossing and turning and when I woke this morning the pain and all was gone.

I have made sure to eat lighter foods today to prevent another attack tonight, but I will definitely be discussing this with my OB next week to see if it could be anything else. Hopefully I won't experience it again.

Otherwise all is well. I have lots of plans in my head to get organized for this baby, now I just have to actually start doing it. I have things strung all around my house and now they need to be organized and assembled. After all, I only have 14 weeks left!

Baby Watch -- Week 25

2010-10-06T06:00:00.001-05:00

Not much new is going on this week. I am continuing to enjoy feeling Little Man moving around a lot. I made a big crock pot of taco soup this week and have been eating it for lunch every day. About 10 minutes after I am done eating somersaults and movements begin in my belly. I guess all that spicy stuff is energizing the little one.

I had my 25 week appointment last Friday. All was well (other than my continued weight gain); we had a healthy heartbeat. I return in a couple weeks for another check up and glucose testing. Yippee! :)

I was recently looking back at my blog archives. I have been blogging since January 2007, when Hoss was 15 months old. The pictures and stories are sweet. I can't wait to experience all those fun times again with this little boy.

Happy 5th Birthday Hoss!

2010-10-05T07:00:00.002-05:00

Dear Hoss,

Today you turn 5. I don't know where the time went or where my adorable pudgy little red-headed baby boy went. Now you are very tall for your age. Everyone always guesses you are at least 6. I tell them to hush. I'm not ready for you to grow up!

You have a very sweet demeanor. You are always asking me to "love" you or "cuddle" you, meaning you want hugs. You don't hug back that much, but I adore squeezing you tight. You ask for giant hugs so I squeeze you extra tight for those.

Despite being so sweet with Mommy, you are still all boy. You love to "fight" with Daddy. You love when Daddy will put you in wrestling moves and give you body slams. The other day I watched as you tried to do Kung Fu moves, kicking your legs and waving your arms. You didn't know I was watching and I chuckled to myself as I watched your "hi-ya" movements.

Still the timid, shy little boy you have always been, you have been pushed out of your comfort zone this year as you have begun to attend daycare. We are hoping this will help you be more prepared for Kindergarten next year. Your preschool teachers at Early Start tell me they see improvements as you are the first one to answer the questions about the letters and numbers. Mommy and Daddy still worry about you from time to time, but we are confident you will be a great person.

Your smile and laugh are so contagious. Mommy and Daddy are so blessed to get to see and hear them all the time. I simply can't stand how adorable you are whenever we sing "Happy Birthday" to you. You grin ear to ear and get so excited! We plan to sing it as many times as we can today!

This coming year you will be getting to accomplish a lot of firsts. You will be a big brother in January and you are continuously telling me every time you hear someone say "brother." You are becoming very interested in the little brother in Mommy's belly. Then you ask me what is in your belly. We always name all the food you ate that day and you laugh. I can't wait to see how much you love your little brother.

Happy 5th Birthday Hoss! We love you more than you know! You are the light in our lives.

Love, Mommy and Daddy

Baby Watch -- Week 24

2010-09-28T07:18:00.002-05:00

Wow! 24 weeks! That means only 16 weeks (or less) left. I'm not sure I'm ready for this. So many changes are coming with this addition, but I know the little bundle will bring us so much joy!

Right now, this little bundle is loving to do somersaults in my belly. He is very active, much more active than his big brother was, as I can recall. I sit and try to remember my pregnancy with Hoss, 5 years ago, and I have trouble remembering all the details. I remember having a very big, pregnant belly and being very tired at the end of the pregnancy. Plus I remember swelling a lot.

Luckily, all swelling has subsided since last week. I think the heat and not drinking enough water were the culprits. I am trying to make sure I drink a lot of water and with the much cooler temperatures we are experiencing this week, I am not experiencing swelling. Let's hope I can keep this up for the next 16 weeks.

I have my next doctor's appointment this Friday. I expect it to be a simple, quick appointment; however, I anticipate I may have to do the glucose test. Hopefully I can pass it this time and not have to do the 3 hour test as I did with Hoss!

Baby Watch -- Week 23

2010-09-21T13:56:00.002-05:00

Fortunately the pains I complained about last week have decreased. I typically only have pain now after I have been sitting for awhile (like at work, at my desk) and then get up to walk. It feels like Baby Boy must lie in a certain position and those muscles and bones hurt initially when I stand; however, I can typically "walk it off."

Occassionally I will also have pain at night still and I am still finding it difficult to sleep soundly. This might have to do with the Big Brother sharing the bed as well. That needs to end soon! Hopefully with the addition of his new bunk bed he is getting for his birthday it will!

A new pregnancy side effect I began experiencing over the past week or so is swelling. My ankles and lower legs swell the most. I have minimal swelling anywhere else and my BP was great when I checked it at the Wal-Mart machine this weekend. I feel fine otherwise, just retaining some fluid. I have drank 4 bottles of water so far today, but I am still holding fluid. I'm trying to stay away from salty foods as I notice more swelling after eating those things. I had horrible swelling and fluid retention with Hoss and I am not looking forward to repeating that this time.

I just realized the other day that I am not religiously checking my Pregnancy Week by Week book like I did with Hoss. I am probably about 3 to 4 weeks behind right now. I know with Hoss I would read it immediately the day I changed from one week to the next. Plus, I would check out all the websites that told me similar information.

I guess this is just a part of having a 2nd child, those things just don't seem to be so important this time. I've done this before and I (kinda) know what's going on. Plus, this baby boy is very active and likes to let me know he is there, so no worries with that. And he is growing a lot, making maternity clothing a desperate need -- another way this pregnancy is different.

With Hoss, I was so thrilled to get to wear maternity clothing, doing so far before I really needed to; however, with this kiddo, I am dreading it. Mostly due to the cost. I no longer have the clothing I wore with Hoss' pregnancy, plus it likely would have been too big. Luckily I have some clothing from pre-weight loss so I have been able to wear those items, but this belly is quickly outgrowing some of those. It will all work out, I only have 17 weeks left (or less)!

Baby Watch -- Week 22

2010-09-14T06:30:00.002-05:00

I have always heard that each pregnancy is different. I have to say, I am starting to believe this is true.

Hoss was a large baby who liked to hang out very high up in utero, around my ribs and lungs. Trust me, this did not make for easy breathing, but it was tolerable. Also with Hoss, I don't recall problems sleeping. Actually, I recall being able to do little else other than sleep. I would crawl home from work and collapse. I didn't cook dinner or do 4 loads of laundry. I only slept.

This Little Man has different preferences than Hoss. This one likes to hang out really low in my pelvis. He likes to make my back hurt and my hips hurt and he keeps me up half the night due to these lovely pains. Just this morning, the pain decided to stick around and I am waddling around as my lower back and hips are aching. Or maybe all the pain is just because I'm older. Either way, this pain is for the birds!

I am also finding I must push through the tiredness this time. If I am tired, I don't get a choice. I must cook dinner, do the 4 loads of laundry, bathe Hoss, get him in bed and eventually collapse into bed myself. (Along with the help of Hubs!) Plus, I am getting up hours earlier than I did when pregnant with Hoss, since I have to get him to school on time.

This pregnancy is different, but I'm happy to be experiencing it all. It is worth it!

Baby Watch -- Week 21

2010-09-07T07:34:00.003-05:00

Week 21 has been good in the pregnancy world. We are debating on a name for our baby boy. I thought we had a name ready, but second thoughts have come up and Hoss despises the name and screams that the baby is NOT _____. (I don't want to say the name in case we end up deciding on it anyway. I'd hate for the baby to read my blog in 20 years -- will they still even exist then?-- and see that his brother hated his name).

So we are back to square one. Hubby has convinced Hoss that the baby's name should be something else that I'm not a huge fan of...let the debates begin.

Otherwise all is well with Baby Boy. He's not causing me too many problems, which is a huge blessing!

We registered this weekend. I know it is a bit taboo to have baby showers for the 2nd, but since we have nothing leftover from Hoss, due to thinking this baby may never happen and for space issues, I'm hoping a few kind friends and/or family will check out the registries.

I have consignment sales on my to-do list every weekend in September, hoping to get some great deals on a few of those non-essentials, but things that would be great to have. Plus, clothes!

And, let's just say I need to stop "window shopping" on Etsy because there are some of the cutest things in the world there!

Like this monkey hat. OH MY WORD! ADORABLE!

Baby Watch -- Week 20

2010-08-31T10:38:00.006-05:00

We had the big, important ultrasound and it's a........................................

BOY!!!!

We are excited to be adding another boy to our family. Hopefully we can convince Hoss a brother is great, since he has been determined to have a sister. He told us the other day that a family is a Mommy, Daddy, boy and girl. I think he believes a girl must be added to make our family. :)

Here are some of the pics from our ultrasound today.

Definitely a boy!

Front of face

Waving hello (see hand on right side)

Side profile of face

Baby Watch -- Week 19

2010-08-24T06:56:00.002-05:00

This week has been the week of growth.

Everything is growing, especially Baby. I can see a difference in my abdomen and enjoy feeling Baby moving around.

I don't have a cute baby bump, so no picture. I'm sure people who have not heard I am expecting just think I am gaining all my weight back. And I might be gaining some of the weight back, but I am hoping to start walking again on my lunch break today. This summer has been so HOT that the mere thought of stepping outside, was overwhelming. Luckily the weather is cooler this week and I need to get my rear moving!

I am getting excited about next Tuesday. We have our 20 week ultrasound then and are hoping Baby will cooperate and tell us if it is a boy or a girl. Hoss is convinced he is having a sister. I think this may be due to both of his boy cousins have younger sisters. I hope he gets his wish and isn't disappointed if he ends up with a brother. Either way, we are ready. We have names tentatively planned and I am excited to start buying baby clothes at the local children's consignment sales in September.

I'll be back next Tuesday to share the big news!

Baby Watch -- Week 18

2010-08-18T07:25:00.003-05:00

Week 18 has been uneventful, thankfully! I have been busy with work and don't have time to deal with any pregnancy woes.

Baby is still moving around and I am feeling it more often during the day. This morning was Hoss's first day of Early Start (next year he'll head to Kindergarten, ACK!), and the baby was moving around all morning. I told Hoss it was because the baby was excited he was going back to school.

Speaking of Hoss, I have been trying to figure out the best way to prepare him for this baby. He will be 5 in October and has spent the last 5 years being spoiled and dotted on without having to share the spotlight with anyone. Plus, Hoss has some developmental delays that can lead to him being more anxious and nervous about changes. We have been talking about the baby for months and will be able to put a name to the baby by September (hopefully!) and I think that will make it seem more real to all of us.

I am looking for books or ideas on how to help Hoss see this baby is a good thing and won't be too jealous. I plan to buy a baby doll or use a toy Hoss already has and show him how we hold the baby and be gentle with it, but otherwise, I'm not sure what else to do.

I am also considering having a gift the baby will give to Hoss at the hospital. Any suggestions on a good gift? The baby will be coming soon after Christmas, so I am sure Hoss will have numerous new toys, but I want to give him something he will equally enjoy from the baby.

Hoss is quite a momma's boy as well and I know I won't be able to do as much for him when the baby comes as I do now. We are trying to start changing that gradually now as Daddy is doing more of the things Mommy used to, but I can see Hoss climbing all over me, wanting to sit in my lap after the baby is born.

Any suggestions from you experienced mothers on how to ease Hoss into the transition? I need all the advice I can get!

Baby Watch -- Week 17

2010-08-11T10:12:00.002-05:00

I had my regular monthly check up last Friday. All was good, with a healthy heartbeat of 149 and then 153. I am scheduled for the big, exciting ultrasound on August 31st! Hopefully baby will cooperate and we will figure out if we will be parents of a girl or boy.

I have been feeling movement on a daily basis, which is marvelous! Typically I feel the movement in the evening when I am lying down or sitting very still. Occassionally I felt movement during the day, but it is only if I am still.

I have been very tired this week, which is odd. Aren't you supposed to regain energy in the 2nd trimester? I think the tiredness is related to having a sinus headache. ALL WEEK! The heat and humidity are bothering me as well. I just need a huge storm to come through and hopefully wipe away the sinus headache.

My hair and nails are growing very nicely. I typically never have fingernails as they break and don't grow well. I think I might take Folic Acid supplements for the rest of my life if the side effect is to have such pretty finger nails. :)

So, week 17 is going well. Counting down the days until August 31st!

Baby Watch -- Week 16

2010-08-05T06:56:00.002-05:00

Week 16 has been much better than Week 15.

The mouth sores are all gone. I am not having nearly as many hotflashes, despite the 100 degree temperatures. And I have begun to feel Baby Frye move.

The first movement I felt was Monday night and again on Tuesday and a couple small ones yesterday. I was uncertain at first if it was really the baby, but it continued off and on and I decided it probably wasn't just gas. :)

Otherwise Week 16 has been good. A very busy week, but a good one. I have my next check-up tomorrow when I turn 17 weeks. Hopefully all will be well with that.

Baby Watch -- Week 15

2010-07-27T07:10:00.002-05:00

Oh, week 15. How I long for you to be over.

Actually, I can't wait for the treats you have brought me to be over. The hot flashes are absurd. I'm hot, then I'm cold, then I'm hot...it is a never ending cycle and I'm done with it.

However, believe it or not, Week 15 has brought me far worse than just hot flashes. I am not sure if it is due to pregnancy hormones or an infection, but my mouth is entirely covered in mouth sores. No exaggerating, I have about 12 to 15 mouth sores. And boy, does that put a damper on eating all my favorite foods!

I went to urgent care yesterday, per the recommendation of my OB, and the strep test was negative. My throat looks just as bad, if not worse than my mouth, but it doesn't hurt as bad. I am on antibiotics and I am hoping it will do something for the horrific mouth sores, but I'm not entirely optimistic about that.

For now, I'm covering my mouth with numbing gel about every 5 minutes and popping a few Tylenol here and there in order to alleviate the pain just enough so I can chew and swallow a few bites of food. Oh, and brush my teeth.

Week 16, I hope you have pity on me! I need it.

Baby Watch -- Week 14

2010-07-21T11:34:00.002-05:00

Week 14 has been uneventful so far.

Of course, as happens about 2 to 3 weeks after every doctor's appointment, the nervous worry begins of fearing something happening to the baby. I'm just plagued with these fears during this pregnancy and I can't wait until this baby is born and here so I can start worrying about something else. Because I'll just find something else to worry about then.

I have another 2 weeks until my next doctor's appointment so I'm hoping I can push the fears aside and not have a complete nervous breakdown before then. As long as I hear the heartbeat and am reassured everything is fine, I'll be okay. For another couple weeks at least. I can't wait until I can feel the baby moving. I will have reassurance every day from then on that my baby is breathing.

Other than fear and worry, I've noticed being more out of breath. This should not be happening yet, I don't think. I'm afraid it is a combination of my poor eating recently and my lack of exercising, not the fact that I'm pregnant. Maybe I just shouldn't run up the stairs at home quite as quickly and slow it down a bit. Yeah, that's it!

And that is Week 14.

Baby Watch -- Week 13

2010-07-13T10:00:00.000-05:00

FYI -- This is my 600th blog post. Wow!

I am officially on week 13 and now a member of the 2nd trimester club. I have more energy and am not quite as sleepy. Well, except for the insomnia I am suffering. I despise not getting my sleep and I am a bit of a grump, to say the least.

Otherwise this pregnancy is going well. I had no morning sickness and other than a minor scare early on, I have had a marvelous pregnancy so far. And I am definitely recognizing that miracle and counting my blessings.

I did experience some swelling on my lower legs and ankles yesterday. I had not drank as much water as I should have and had eaten some food high is sodium, so I am going to try to drink a lot more water today and make sure I'm making better food choices. I had excessive swelling and the beginning of pre-eclampsia with Hoss and I don't want any of that on this go around.

And I can't forget to point out that I turned 30 this past Friday. I started Perty by Thirty a year and a half ago and I had no idea I would be pregnant when I actually turned 30. I am thrilled to be pregnant and feel as if my Perty by Thirty goal was met, even if I did not hit the numbers I wanted.

One of the main goals, which I never spoke about publicly, in my weight loss journey was to loose weight so I could have another child. Even though I was heavier when I conceived Hoss, I knew that my weight (and ever increasing age) were not in my favor to conceive again. My weight loss changed my life in ways I could never imagine and I am so happy I am going to have the ultimate reward of another child.

So, all the effort I put in (and will continue to put in after this pregnancy) working toward Perty by Thirty has definitely paid off!

Baby Watch -- Week 12

2010-07-02T20:44:00.005-05:00

I'm not sure why I worry so much. I mentioned yesterday that I was worried about my ultrasound today. I never remember being so nervous going to the OB when I was pregnant with Hoss as I do with this baby.

I'm assuming this worry is because I am older and much more aware of the possible dangers that can occur while pregnant. I literally hold my breath until I see or hear the heartbeat with this baby. Luckily, I have heard and seen it every time. Including today.

Here are the first pictures of Baby Frye.

This baby is a bit stubborn. It was lying on its side and refused to move. They wanted to get a picture of the back of the baby and get more measurement, but no matter how much I coughed, moved or we pushed around the baby, it refused to flip over. It waved at us, as if it was playing games with us (and obviously winning), but never cooperated. I will definitely be drinking caffeine before the next ultrasound at 20 weeks when I hope to find out if this baby is a he or a she.

I'm pretty confident it is a she. The heart rate was 167, indicating it might be a girl, even my OB said so. The ultrasound tech (who was also the tech for Hoss) noted that the stubbornness of this baby could indicate it's a girl.

We will find out at the beginning of September. For now I am just waiting until the next appointment on August 6th. We are moving into the 2nd trimester and it is so very exciting!

Baby Watch -- Week 11

2010-07-01T08:58:00.002-05:00

This week the hormones are attacking my skin. My face looks like a 13 year old's as the acne is taking over.

I'm pretty much done with these hormones.

I'm excited to be going to the doctor again tomorrow where I will have another ultrasound. I hope to come away with pictures this time. I do have to admit that I am a little bit nervous for this ultrasound. I have no reason to be as my pregnancy has been healthy since the early scare; however, I just have that nervous, butterflies in my stomach kind of feeling.

Hopefully that will all be gone by tomorrow morning.

We are throwing around names for this baby. I have decided it is a girl. Call it the motherly instinct, but I just feel it. Now, if this baby is a boy I will be thrilled as well, but will have to second guess that mother's intuition in the future. Either way, we are working on names for both a boy and a girl.

Be expecting a Week 12 post a bit earlier than usual with pictures!

Baby Watch -- Week 10

2010-06-24T17:25:00.003-05:00

Apparently I will be posting on Thursdays, that seems to be the trend so far.

So, week 10 has been all about the hormones. Oh my word, the tears. I have fought them all week, but unfortunately had a small incident today when I couldn't hold them back anymore.

Hate the hormones. My hormones have always been very sensitive and this baby is kicking them into high gear. UGH!

Oh well, hopefully it will subside. I just hope I can handle postpartum without problems (see, the hormones have me worrying about something months down the road).

Baby Watch -- 9 Weeks

2010-06-15T08:40:00.002-05:00

I better write this today because I will be 10 weeks tomorrow! You really didn't think I would post every Monday, like I said did you? Sorry if I disappointed you!

Maybe it is for the better though because if I wrote this blog on Sunday I would have told you I was not having any symptoms of being pregnant at all (which did worry me a bit). I was very busy all weekend and never felt tired. I was actually full of energy.

However, Tuesday hit and boy have I been tired! Being tired has been about my only symptom of pregnancy so far, except for a little bit of breast tenderness. I am lucky that I have not had to deal with any illness. I notice being slightly nauseous when I get hungry. I must eat every 2 to 3 hours or else that odd feeling hits me. Which, eating every 2 to 3 hours isn't too hard, it is making sure I eat healthy that is hard.

I am off to go for a walk before it gets too warm out today. An occasional walk seems to be boost my energy level (sometimes) and make me feel like I'm being healthy. And I need to feel healthy because those Little Debbie Fudge Rounds I may eat after I walk sure won't make me feel that way.

Perty by Thirty Hiatus

2010-06-06T18:44:00.003-05:00

I've made it Facebook official, now it's time to make it blog official.

Perty by Thirty is going to be taking a hiatus and possible name change to Perty by 31 1/2 because (drum roll please).....

I'M PREGNANT!!!!

I am due to have baby #2 on January 14, 2011. A bit of a belated 30th birthday present (since my birthday is next month), but I am beyond thrilled!

My plan is to post here weekly about my pregnancy progress as I was (kinda) doing with Perty by Thirty. However, we will call it Baby Watch 2011 (watch, I'll have this baby on 12/31/10...which is fine, it will be a tax write off and will share my grandmother's birthday!).

So, for my first edition of Baby Watch 2011.

I'm 8 weeks along and so far have not been free from pregnancy drama. My pregnancy with Hoss was relatively uneventful except for a couple falls and borderline gestational diabetes (left untreated). His birth began the fun with his breach 10 pound body requiring a c-section and the fun hasn't stopped yet.

I'm hoping being 100 pounds lighter will give me a benefit to prevent another c-section and 10 pound baby. That is my goal so far!

My first lab work test showed low Hcg levels. After 3 more tests and an ultrasound, my body has finally decided to do what it is supposed to -- correctly. Other than a small blood clot behind the placenta, which my body is supposed to absorb itself, all is well.

I got to see my cute little alien baby at 7 weeks and its healthy heart beating strongly. I am scheduled for another ultrasound on July 2nd at 12 weeks.

I've had to be cautious with how much I do with this pregnancy. That is so odd. I had no restrictions with Hoss, but I have noticed I have cramping and mild spotting if I even stand on my feet for an hour. That has lessened a lot, but it is enough to keep me sitting still more often. Plus, I kinda like the excuse to be lazy! :)

Our faith has kept our hopes alive that we will get to be parents of another baby one day and our faith is helping us to believe and pray this baby will be perfect, just like our Hoss.

We are so excited to be starting this journey again!

A new 'do

2010-05-06T21:39:00.005-05:00

A few weeks ago I decided I needed a new "do." It had been over a year since I had had my last haircut. Needless to say, I was definintely overdue for a trim.

I wish I had taken a before picture, but I did not. Imagine hair about 2 inches below the shoulders that was frizzball central. It was curly and not cooperating.

So, here is the after picture.

Ok, I'm just kidding. This was a trial I did a couple weeks ago on a Saturday to see what the short hair would look like curly. A little wild, eh?

Here is the real hairdo.

Please don't look at the nose, I know it is huge!

My hair in this style takes a bit more time as I have to straighten my hair everyday since it is naturally curly. But, regardless of the time, I love it.

So, what do you think?

Perty by Thirty -- Week 69

2010-05-04T10:08:00.002-05:00

Well, I accomplished the goal I had set for myself -- to hit 100 pounds again by this week.

I did it! I lost exactly 2.4 pounds to bring my total back to 100 pounds.

I'm hoping and am going to strive to not fall under that 100 pounds again. Although, I have some temptations and challenges coming up in the next week or so, but I'm determined to stay in the triple digits this time!

My next goal -- to be at 105 pounds and finally earn another 5 pound star at my Weight Watcher meeting by Memorial Day, May 31st. There will not be my regular meeting that day, but I will weigh sometime that week and get my 5 pound star one way or another!

Perty by Thirty Week 68

2010-04-27T07:24:00.002-05:00

Look! I'm back! Two days in a row! It's like a miracle is happening. :)

Quite honestly, I probably would not be back here posting if I didn't have good news, right?

Well, you're right, I do have good news. To the tune of 3 pounds.

This brings my total weight loss back up to 97.6. The math had gotten off somewhere along the way, and was .2lb too high, so it looks like I only lost 2.8, but it's okay. I know in my heart I lost 3 pounds.

Now, I need to be honest for a minute. I was a bit disappointed that I only lost 3 pounds. I know it seems like a dumb thing to say especially since I have been yo yo dieting for the past 3 months, but it's the truth.

See, I did everything right last week. I exercised every day (but one), I ate within my points perfectly. I expected to lose more than 3 pounds. I was hoping for a big 5 pound loss, but that did not happen.

This week I plan to step it up a notch in the exercise department. I need to walk longer and harder and faster. I'm hoping I really can, but the weather is not looking good, so that may not be an option.

I am also going to try to decrease my carbs and sugar a bit. This is going to be the hardest thing for me and it may be a gradual change, but I think it will help.

So that's the plan. Let's hope I stick to it and can come back here next week with something good to report!

Perty by Thirty Weeks 56-67

2010-04-26T11:04:00.003-05:00

Has it really been almost 3 months since I last posted here? Man, time flies. Especially when you are falling off the weight loss bandwagon!

On January 28, 2010, the last time I posted here my weight loss total was 101.4. That was the last time I have seen the 100 pound mark.

Currently my weight loss total is 94.8 pounds (that is before tonight's weigh in where I hope to get a big loss).

So in the past 3 months I have spent time fluctuating up and down. So much so, it's embarassing. However, I began this journey publicly and I continue to do so publicly. Since I am using this blog as my weight loss journal, I'm going to post my 3 months of yo yo dieting weigh-ins.

Here goes!

2/1 -- +1.6 = 99.8
2/8 -- +.4 = 99.4
2/15 -- skipped weigh in (yikes!)
2/22 -- +8.2 (yes, it says EIGHT!!!) = 91.2
3/1 -- -1.2 = 92.4 (that 8 pounds scared me!)
3/8 -- -2.6 = 95
3/15 -- -1 = 96
3/22 -- skipped weigh in again, uh oh....
3/29 -- +5.2 = 90.8 (see what skipping a week does to me?)
4/5 -- -.2 = 91
4/12 -- -3.8 = 94.8
4/19 -- 0 = 94.8

The main lesson I have learned from the past 3 months is that I have to face facts. If I did bad one week, don't kid myself into thinking I should skip a Weight Watcher meeting and weigh-in. Because, as we can see above, this does not help me at all. EVER!

I have also learned that facing the facts can be beneficial and often inspiring to me.

I hope to be back tonight or tomorrow with a post about what a fabulous weight loss I had at the scale tonight. I really am hoping for a 5 pound response, especially since I did everything right. I exercised every day (except one) and never went outside of my daily point allowance.

And I feel good! Let's hope the scale thinks so too.

Perty by Thirty Week 55

2010-01-28T08:06:00.003-05:00

Despite eating an entire bag of Mikesells Honey Barbeque Potato Chips (my favorite of ALL time!) this weekend I managed to lose 1 pound this week at my weigh in.

That brings me to a total lost of 101.4. This is the highest loss so far. Since I have been yo-yo-ing back and forth over the past 6 weeks, I am proud to finally be able to be at the highest number so far.

I have been working hard since the weigh-in Monday to stay on track this week, hoping I can fight off that bag of chips I ate! So far, so good. I was stress eating a LOT last week and we spoke all about that at the Weight Watchers meeting Monday night. It was as if the subject was designed just for me.

I am attempting to be more active. I completely fell off the exercise bandwagon around November. The cold temperatures have not encouraged me to get out and walk, as I was all summer, and I have just allowed myself to become lazy again.

A friend and I began doing Biggest Loser workouts to a DVD she has last week. The low intensity workout is KICKING MY BUTT! I thought I was "in shape." Apparently I was very wrong. This week I have also been using my Wii Fit a lot more in order to keep moving.

I plan to begin the Couch to 5K program on March 1st, with hopes that I can run (jog) in a 5K this summer. Until then, I need to keep moving. A local gym is running a special to get a free month long membership. I'm considering checking it out, but I just have to stick to my guns and make sure there is no fine print that will commit me to a long-term membership.

So, now I'm off to get moving and to keep cookies and chips out of my mouth! :)

Perty by Thirty Weeks 52, 53, 54

2010-01-20T10:57:00.003-05:00

Yes, I am still alive!

I have thought about blogging in the past three weeks, but obviously the words never left my brain and entered the blog page.

Week 52 I chose not to blog. I was very upset about my weight gain and I really was discouraged. It had been an entire year on this weight loss journey and I had gained 7.8 pounds over the previous 3 weeks (4.4 pounds gained on week 52). I was not anticipating such a huge gain and I believe my body has been playing tricks on me. Especially since I lost 8 pounds on Week 53.

Yes, I lost 8 pounds in one week. I am fairly certain I was bloated and constipated on Week 52 when I weighed in. Hey, I'm just trying to keep it real here. Obviously all of that was not 8 pounds worth, at least I don't think so. If it was then I probably have a different problem that needs addressing.

Either way, Week 53 motivated me to keep going. It motivated me and I thought I did well, but I gained .6 pound this past week. It wasn't much and I am going to blame female hormones and the fact that I was wearing heavy jeans that I typically would not have worn to weigh in, but I was off work and they were practically the only pair of pants I had clean (I later did my laundry, so no need to worry about me!).

I'm still motivated to keep going and to keep fighting this battle. I really just need to get over the hump of 105 pounds. I seem to be going back and forth for the past 6 weeks and I need to stop fluctuating and head full steam ahead. I only have 6 months left to lose the remaining 63 pounds in order to hit my Perty by Thirty goal (July 9, 2010). At this rate, that will not happen.

So, I have plans. I am going to attempt to do some type of exercise every day. Since I weigh in on Mondays, I began yesterday (Tuesday) when I "exercised" on the Wii Fit. It doesn't really feel like much exercise, but at least I am moving and not sitting on the couch eating peanut butter as I have been known to do recently.

I'm still pressing on. I still have goals and I know I will accomplish those goals. Hopefully I'll be thrilled to come back next week and post about how Week 55 was very successful!

Perty by Thirty Weeks 50 and 51

2009-12-29T09:29:00.002-05:00

Ok, I deliberately skipped posting last week for week 50. Mostly because I was ashamed. I had been tempted by the Christmas yummies and I ate, ate, and ate some more! I even skipped going to Weight Watchers for the FIRST TIME because I knew I had gained weight.

This week I sucked it up and went to face the music. I knew it would be bad because skipping last week did nothing to help my motivation. Nothing at all.

Luckily, my gain was not as bad as I anticipated. I mean, I didn't eat an entire cheeseball like I did at Thanksgiving, but I did eat numerous (like closing in on the hundreds) sugary snacks. Even though I begged all my family not to give me ANY Christmas candy and they all followed those strict orders perfectly, I do still have a kid. And he had no idea that he even got those 15 Butterfinger chocolate bells and he will never know because I ate them all. Every last one of them. I even dug back in the candy bowl looking for more. There were none and the Crunch version has NOTHING on the Butterfinger ones!

All that eating, and skipping a weigh-in, cost me 3.4 pounds.

I do have to admit I am a bit ashamed that it dropped me back under the 100 pound mark. The mark I was so thrilled to meet two weeks ago. The mark that led me to be featured in this article that was published in today's local newspaper.

Yikes! Hopefully I can lose that 3.4 pounds this week (as long as my New Year's Eve celebrations don't sabotage me!) and return to the victorious 100 pound club.

I'll be sure to update next week, good or bad, since it will be the 1 year mark. This is all a journey one pound (up or down) at a time.

Perty by Thirty Week 49

2009-12-16T08:06:00.002-05:00

100.8! 100.8! 100.8! 100.8! 100.8!

That is my total weight loss so far!

Let's just let that sink in for a few minutes.

In 50 weeks I have lost more than 100 pounds.

It is hard for me to believe that on January 5, 2009 when I walked into Weight Watchers for my first meeting I was 100.8 pounds heavier.

It is hard for me to understand why I waited so long to do this. It is so simple (sometimes!).

I was not able to stay for my WW meeting this week due to prior commitments, but I am going to be celebrating with them next week (as long as I don't gain a pound and no longer be able to wear the title of 100 pounds lost!).

Perty by Thirty Weeks 47 and 48

2009-12-08T08:17:00.002-05:00

I did not intend to forego last week's update, but the week quickly got away from me and here we are today.

Last week I gained .8 pound. I knew it would happen as I ate most of the weekend before the weigh-in. I mean, I ate an entire cheeseball over the course of 3 days. Now, in the past I would have eaten the cheeseball in one sitting, at least I split it up this time, but still, an ENTIRE cheeseball? Seriously? So I was actually pleasantly surprised to see only a .8 pound gain. I expected much worse.

I really worked hard last week to follow my points. I counted every bite that went into my mouth until Friday. Friday was our 5 year anniversary and it is hard to count points for a burger and fries from Steak and Shake (our romantic lunch date!); however, I was very busy all weekend putting up Christmas decorations and shopping and making yummy treats (all to give away to others!). I did sample my creations, but did not overdo it. All of that paid off and I lost 4.4 pounds!

I was very surprised by the large number. I didn't expect such a big loss, but I am thrilled. This brings me up to a total loss of 99 pounds! I am extremely motivated to reach the 100 pound goal next week! Let's hope I can keep the motivation around through the week!

Perty by Thirty Week 46

2009-11-25T09:53:00.002-05:00

Despite a potluck at work, a baby shower with delectable treats, and a Thanksgiving dinner at church I was able to lose .8 pound. I was a little shocked. I really tried to do well at all the events, but it was difficult and I didn't always do well. I also did not exercise this week, which often causes my loses to be low or non-existent.

Luckily I had a loss and I am motivated to have another, despite the holiday and all the great food I will have at my fingertips. Let's hope I can come back next week and have another loss.

Happy Thanksgiving to you all!

Perty by Thirty total -- 95.8 pounds
BlogapaLOSEa total -- 15.8 pounds

Perty by Thirty Week 45

2009-11-19T21:53:00.002-05:00

Well, I knew it was bad when I couldn't stop eating, no matter what was in front of me. Luckily it didn't show up too bad on the scale (yet). I gained .2 pound this week. I really can't complain considering how bad it was. I am trying to get back on track now, but I'm still having trouble with all the yummy food all around! I wrote more about my difficulties this past week here.

Perty by Thirty total: 94.6
BlogapaLOSEa: 14.6

Perty by Thirty Week 44

2009-11-10T21:38:00.002-05:00

Sigh.

I really had big hopes for this week's weigh-in. I followed my allotted points, wrote down all the food I ate, and exercised 3 days. All of that equaled a 1.2 pound weight loss.

Yes, it was a loss, but I really had big hopes for something larger. I'm 5.2 pounds away from hitting 100 pounds by Thanksgiving. I'm afraid I am not going to make that goal. I hate not hitting a goal I set for myself.

I'm still determined to try and I want to make the Thanksgiving goal, but if you saw what I ate today you'd think I was trying to gain 100 pounds by Thanksgiving. And, unfortunately my stomach is making sure I don't forget about the bad food I ate. I can't even explain the horrible stomach pains I have been experiencing this evening.

It was a lesson learned and for the next 6 days I am going to dedicate myself to losing and only think about losing. As long as that leftover Halloween candy someone brought in to work disappears before I get to work tomorrow. If not, I may be doomed. Chocolate is my downfall.

Totals:
Perty by Thirty: 94.8 pounds
BlogapaLOSEa: 14.8 pounds

Perty by Thirty Week 43

2009-11-02T18:51:00.002-05:00

Forty-three weeks. Wow! Only nine until I hit the one year mark. Today at our Weight Watchers' meeting we discussed our motivation to stay strong through the holidays. Our first step was to set a goal. Where do we want to be in nine weeks after the holidays.

What? Nine weeks? Seriously? Oh my word...these next nine weeks are going to be CRAZY!!! I have so much to do. And I set my goal high. Very high. Probably too high. I said I want to lose 16.4 pounds in these next nine weeks.

I'm not so sure it is do-able, but I'm going to do the best I can to make it do-able. I'm struggling to meet my Thanksgiving goal of hitting the 100 pound mark. After this week's loss of 1.6 pounds, I am at a total of 93.6 pounds lost. That means I need to lose 6.4 pounds in the next three weeks. I can do it and 4 months ago I would have shrugged it off, but now the weight is coming off slower. Much slower.

My plan for this week is to track my points very closely. And to walk at least 4 days. Last week I did neither, so if I can lose 1.6 pounds not doing so, let's hope I can lose at least 3 pounds doing it all.

I will try to remember to take a picture sometime this week. I've been awful about doing that. I definitely will take a picture as soon as I hit 100 pounds lost, but maybe I can get to it earlier than that.

Perty by Thirty total: 93.6
BlogapaLOSEa: 13.6

My new bathroom

2009-11-01T16:55:00.010-05:00

Side note: Can you believe I'm blogging something other than my weight loss? Amazing, I know. I am hoping I can pretend like my weigh-in tomorrow won't be half as bad as I think it will be. Darn Halloween candy!

My home is boring. Very boring. Every wall is white and aside from thirty million pictures of my child, there are very few decorations. I have a lot of ideas, but little to no money to make it happen, so I just live with the second hand furniture and add a few items here or there a I can.

One thing that most people probably don't know is that I have a love for antiques and primitive design. Since my home has very little of this my love for these is not very evident. Luckily, I was inspired by a friend's bathroom recently. All it takes for me is a vision or idea and then I start running with it.

My inspiration came only a couple weeks before I went to a craft festival which often has numerous antiques and primitive items. Since I was still feeling inspired and I had a few dollars budgeted, I wandered around the craft fair on a cold, damp morning. I wasn't certain what I wanted specifically. I was hoping for items which would inspire my creativity.

I first fell in love with a primitive wooden american flag. It was at one of the first booths I stopped at. I loved the flag, but decided I wasn't ready to make a purchase yet so I continued on around the fair. As I continued I began to see more and more items which inspired me. After I found a couple stars I instantly decided I had to return and hope the flag was still available.

So I returned to the booth and there is was. I grabbed the flag and away I went, inspired. I found a few more items which I loved and I knew instantly I had all the decor needed for my bathroom.

The bathroom I wanted to "redo" is a small half bathroom off of our living room. When I say small, I mean really, really small. It has a toilet and a sink. That is it. I estimate the bathroom is 2 feet by 8 feet, literally just enough room to turn around. Everything in the bathroom was white. A white toilet, white sink, and white walls. The floors are a fake brown stick-on pretend wood.

I attempted to take before pictures of the room, but it was nearly impossible. I did get a nice shot of the toilet and another of the sink. It was the best I could do. Please note I did not clean the bathroom before I took the pictures. I'm sorry to embarass you with my lack of housekeeping skills, Mom.

I headed to Lowes Friday evening to get some paint. I knew I wanted a dark tan/brown type color. I narrowed it down to two different options and went with the one that had the better name, hot chocolate. Yep, I'm very scientific with my decision methods.

On my way home from Lowes I decided I wanted to immediately start painting as soon as I got home. And that is just what I did. I painted until the wee hours of the morning on Saturday. My painting skills definitely lack the skill part. I, unfortunately, got several streaks, probably should have done a second coat, and in hind sight should have contacted a professional.

Despite that, I think the final product turned out alright. I love all the items together. I actually went to the bathroom today and said aloud, "this is so cozy." Just what you want in a bathroom, coziness, right?

This is the shelf above the toilet. I hung it a bit too high, but it is on the wall and at this point that is what matters.

Here is the inspiration for the room design. Don't ya just heart it?

And this is my favorite purchase. I stumbled upon it as we were making one last look through before we left. It says "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord. Psalms 33:12."

A blue and red star hung above the light switch.

A look at the toilet and the decorations around the closet, er, I mean room.

My husband found my decorating a bit humorous. Apparently when we were dating I went on a bit of a tyraid about how I didn't like people decorating their homes in a patriotic theme. I don't remember this conversation, but apparently it just goes to show I am one to eat my words.

Hoss seems to like the room. We mentioned that the wall color was like chocolate and he went in and licked the wall. I guess he thought it was really chocolate. Now that would be a dream room! He now calls the bathroom "chocolate milk." Plus, we have been using the new decor as a teaching tool. We are working on the Pledge of Allegiance.

Who knew that some bathroom decorating could be so much fun. And educational!

Perty by Thirty Week 42

2009-10-27T11:21:00.002-05:00

This week I am only 8 pounds away from my Thanksgiving goal to hit 100 pounds lost. that only leaves me 4 weeks, so I need to lose 2 pounds each week. With Halloween and all the candy I'm afraid I may be sabatoged! I'm already eating way too much candy the kiddo got from Trunk or Treat this weekend at church. Even if I hide the candy I still remember it is there and go get more!

Hopefully I won't let the candy sabatoge me and I can keep up the losing.

This past week I lost 1.4 pounds, bringing my totals to:

Perty by Thirty -- 92
BlogapaLOSEa -- 12 (I'm off to go check in on my competitors' progress)

Perty by Thirty Week 41

2009-10-19T20:55:00.002-05:00

I'm not delaying writing this week!

This week I lost 2.8 pounds!

I'm now up to 90.6 lost!

Only 9.4 pounds left until I hit TRIPLE DIGITS!!!!!!!!!

I may cry the day that happens.

I'm hoping it happens sooner than later!

Perty by Thirty total -- 90.6 pounds
BlogapaLOSEa -- 10.6 pounds

Perty by Thirty Week 40

2009-10-15T18:53:00.002-05:00

Well, I didn't mean to put off posting again this week, but I did...accidentally. So, here I am to tell you that I did something this past week in my weight loss journey that I've never done before. I did not lose or gain any weight. I stayed exactly the same! Amazing, right! I thought so.

I do have to admit I was a bit disappointed. Despite the fact that I walked four days last week, I didn't lose any weight. However, I do believe it was my own fault. I have been having a very difficult time with my eating on the weekend. I have been wanting to eat everything I can get my hands on. Due to that I think my weight loss is struggling.

Maybe I will do better this weekend. I will be visiting my parents and hope to be too busy to eat! :) Wish me luck!

Perty by Thirty: 87.8
BlogapaLOSEa: 7.8

Perty by Thirty Weeks 38 and 39

2009-10-05T20:50:00.003-05:00

Oops, I never got around to blogging last week. Probably because I didn't want to admit that I had gained 2 pounds! I was very disappointed in myself as I had been doing so well, but over the past few weeks I have been slacking off. Darn it, those Oreos tasted SOOOOOO good. But, not good enough to make it okay that I gained 2 pounds.

So, luckily, I took charge this past week and lost those two pounds, plus some, to the tune of a total of 3.2 pounds this week. I was THRILLED! And honestly a little shocked, especially since I wasn't great over the weekend.

The past week has showed me how absolutely necessary it is for me to have a friend along for the ride with me on this journey. I joined Weight Watchers after seeing a friend's progress she was having. This friend has been my lifeline at times to keep me on track.

We decided we need to have goals to celebrate our milestones. We are currently planning to have pedicures together when the first person hits 100 pounds. I am currently only 12.2 pounds away. Hopefully by Thanksgiving that pedicure will happen. Too bad it won't be sandal weather.

We are also planning to take a long weekend trip to the beach next summer to celebrate both of us reaching our goals. We are certain we will both be to our goals by next summer and are looking forward to celebrating together.

If it wasn't for having someone to hold me accountable on a day to day basis, I may not be as far along on my journey as I am now.

For the BlogapaLOSEa challenge I am supposed to post a picture each week. Well, I don't have one right now. If I waited to take one and get it posted I would probably be waiting for awhile. I'll try to take one this week and get it added soon.

Totals:
Perty by Thirty: 87.8
BlogapaLOSEa: 7.8

Perty by Thirty Week 37

2009-09-21T20:39:00.002-05:00

Thankfully I turned the negative last week into a positive this week as I lost 3.6 pounds! Yay! Only 13.4 pounds until I hit 100lbs!!!!!!

This weekend I decided to clean out my closet. I removed the items that are too big and boy, were there a lot. I have an entire 30 gallon tote full and I haven't been able to fasten the lid yet. Now I just have to hit the lottery and go shopping for new clothes, in another size smaller! I'm now down 10 numbers! Yippee! That is all the motivation I need.

I have not been exercising much recently, but I am signed up to walk in a 5K this weekend, so I will definitely get my exercise in on Saturday.

And as for my weekly BlogapaLOSEa info, I actually took a picture this week. Then I realized it was in the same clothing I wore in my last picture 2 weeks ago. Only this week I made my husband stand up when he took the pictures so I don't look like a giant and I didn't pull on my pants and make them look like parachute pants.

So here it is.

Total losses:
Perty by Thirty -- 86.6
BlogapaLOSEa -- 6.6

Perty By Thirty Week 36

2009-09-17T21:04:00.002-05:00

Yikes! It's Thursday and I'm just now posting this week. I have lots of excuses I'm sure you all have heard before, but ultimately there are two reason I haven't posted this one. One, I gained weight! ACK!!!!! I gained .4 pound. It wasn't much, but it was the first time I gained in 15 weeks. That was a record I wasn't interested in breaking. I was a bit disappointed in myself. And eating all the bad food wasn't even worth it. Dang! But I'm learning my lesson and have been really watching my food intake this week. As of tonight, my scale appears to be going back down. Let's hope I can keep it up for 3 1/2 more days until my next weigh in.

I also have not found a moment or remembered to take my picture for the BlogapaLOSEa contest. So, I'm tired of waiting to do it, so here is my weekly post without a picture. If I get a chance I'll post one soon.

Totals so far:
Perty by Thirty: 83
BlogapaLOSEa: 3

Perty by Thirty Week 35

2009-09-08T20:53:00.003-05:00

This week I have met several goals with my weight loss.

First, I have official dropped 13 BMI points! Which is amazing!

Second, I have FINALLY hit the halfway mark. I now have lost 83.4 pounds (3.4 pounds this past week) and have only 80.4 left to hit my goal!

Third, I won a prize at work in the challenge they had back in June and July. It is an organizer/planner type item. I have not received it yet, but I'm excited that my weight loss helped me win something!

Let's just hope it helps me win something else, like the BlogapaLOSEa competition!

Here is my weekly picture for the BlogapaLOSEa challenge. Please don't look too closely. You may see the stain on my shirt and my end of the day frizz fest I call hair.

So far, my totals are as follows:
Perty by Thirty -- 83.4
BlogapaLOSEa -- 3.4

Perty by Thirty Week 34

2009-08-31T20:52:00.004-05:00

I got another 5 pound star tonight at Weight Watchers as I reached a total of 80 pounds lost with the 2.2 pounds I went down this week.

This makes 13 weeks in a row that I have lost weight. I'm hoping I won't ruin it over the Labor Day weekend. Since Monday is a holiday, I am planning on finding a Tuesday Weight Watchers meeting to attend next week.

This week marks the start of BlogapaLOSEa. If you are interested in joining, they are allowing people to enter until September 6th, so go sign up. You can check out all the rules and details here. I'm definitely in it to win it. I would love to lose at least 20 pounds to hit the 100 pound mark by Thanksgiving.

Part of the rules of participation for BlogapaLOSEa is to post a weekly picture of yourself. So, here is mine. It is definitely not attractive. Next week I'll try not to spill my dinner on my clothes and take a picture in something other than poorly fitting work out clothes.

See y'all next week!

Perty by Thirty week 33

2009-08-25T08:36:00.002-05:00

Wow! Has it really been 33 weeks since I started this journey? I guess it really has been. It still amazes me that I've stuck with it this long. And I am going to keep sticking with it until I reach my goal. What a day that will be!

This week I lost 1.4 pounds bringing my total to 77.8. Not too shabby considering I ate everything I could get my hands on all day Friday. I even ate at IHOP! Seriously, that could have been enough to doom me for good. But then I went to the State Fair on Saturday and even though I really, really wanted a corn dog and a funnel cake I skipped them. If I hadn't rode a Ferris Wheel I may not have remembered I was even at a fair. I did eat some fried potatoes and real! chocolate! ice cream! that I was supposed to share with the kiddo, but, well, I ate about 9/10ths of it. I couldn't let it go to waste and after the headrush the child acquired after bite number 5, he turned his interest back to the popcorn.

I have been considering my motivation to keep going lately and I talked more about that over here yesterday. And, I have found my most recent motivation, contests! I have learned that if I have a short term goal, I am most successful. Once again, I stumbled upon a weight loss contest and I'd love for any of you who are interested to join. It is BlogapaLOSEa. You can check out the info here.

Beginning next Monday I will be posting weekly about my progress in the BlogapaLOSEa contest. I will even be posting a weekly picture of my progress! Yikes! I am setting my goal at 22.2 pounds. That will put me at 100 pounds lost by Thanksgiving! I would really like to lose more than that in this time frame and it may happen, but I need a reasonable, reachable goal, so hitting the 100 pounds total lost by Thanksgiving will be it!

Perty by Thirty Week 32

2009-08-17T20:14:00.002-05:00

I went shopping yesterday and was thrilled to purchase 3 new shirts in size 1X. If you only knew how thrilled I was in the dressing room. I did a little happy dance in the tiny room. Since I never could have considered wearing anything other than a 3X for years, I was on top of the world.

Then I went home and stepped on my scale. I've decided my scale is either a) broken, b) old, or c) a motivator. My scale typically always reads at least 3 pounds heavier than the scale at Weight Watchers. And it send me into a frenzy about the fact that I have gained weight. How could that have happened? I followed my points perfectly. I didn't even use very many of my extra points. I even exercised.

Well, luckily my scale is never right. Eventually I'll remember that, but I'm okay with the broken scale. I need all the motivation I can get.

This week I lost 1.2 pounds.

I was reviewing my book that holds all my past weigh-ins and I was pleased to see that I have not gained any weight for 11 weeks.

I'm working toward week 12 now.

I also posted here today about my weight loss journey.

Perty by Thirty Week 31

2009-08-10T18:30:00.002-05:00

I have to say I was a bit surprised with today's outcome at the scale. I decided to wear a very light weight dress specifically for my weigh-in. I was afraid it wasn't going to be pretty. I didn't do horrible with my eating this week, but I did not exercise hardly at all. I thought about exercising, but that just didn't get me up and moving. So, when the scale showed I had lost 3.2 pounds, I was thrilled.

I was also very excited about losing enough to push me over the 75 pound mark. I was able to add my 75 pound magnet along side my 25 and 50 pound magnets on my refrigerator. I am sure they will have to create me a 150 pound one when I finally hit that goal sometime next year.

And those clothes I mentioned a couple weeks ago, well, I fit into them now. I actually wore two pairs of the pants this weekend. I also retired some that were extremely baggy and really needed to be put to rest. Soon I will be heading out to start fall shopping. I'm very excited about possibly dropping another size. After all, I am 4 sizes smaller right now. That's 8 numbers.

Did you see that? EIGHT NUMBERS! That's all the motivation I need.

Perty by Thirty Week 30

2009-08-04T07:22:00.003-05:00

I figured out the secret for me. I must exercise. I was off work on a staycation last week and I had difficulty finding time to exercise. Hoss was with me throughout the week and we had VBS at church each evening. By the time we got home it was dark outside and I was exhausted, so exercising did not come easily.

The scale showed the lack of movement as it barely moved itself. At least it did go down, by .2 pound. Better than a gain! I am determined to get back into exercising this week and to see a larger loss next week.

I am only 10 pounds away from my halfway point. That is very exciting and I am hoping to get there by mid September. I would actually like to meet that by September 14th, to be exact. No specific reason for that day, but just seems to be a reasonable goal.

Well, I am off to get moving. See ya next week!

Perty by Thirty -- Week 29

2009-07-27T22:14:00.003-05:00

Tonight I tried on some clothes a co-worker gave me. I have had the clothes sitting on the floor of my bedroom for two months. I have tried them on three times, but they never fit. Until tonight. I was able to get all but two pairs on and zipped/buttoned. They are tight and are not comfortable yet, but give me 10 more pounds and they should be perfect.

I decided to try these pants on tonight because I had a great and a bit unexpected weight loss this week. In one week, I lost 6.4 pounds! I really tried to stay right at my points values this week. Actually, one day I even had 6 points left over, which is not recommended, but it was 10p.m. when I realized it and I just didn't want to eat something, so I didn't.

My loss this week brings me up to 71.8 pounds lost since January 5th. My goal I have set for myself is to lose 100 pounds by Christmas and meet my goal of 163.8 pounds lost by July 9, 2010 (my 30th birthday. I think I can really do this! Actually, I know I can!

All in a day

2009-07-22T13:47:00.002-05:00

So far today has been eventful. I started the day childless (he is hanging out with Gigi and Grandpa for a few days) so I was able to sleep in a little. I had a nice healthy breakfast of a fruit smoothie and nutrigrain bar and headed to work. I arrived at work early and was able to get my thoughts organized before the chaos began.

I had to go to another county for work. I went and did the work stuff and decided to swing by McDonalds. I had a coupon for a free salad and it was not good in the county I live in, but was good in the county I had to travel to. While I was sitting in line at the drive-thru, the truck in front of me backed into my car. Yep, totally put a nice hole in the front bumper of my car. I am fine as was the other driver. We filed a police report, which was surprisingly smooth, and away I went. Well, only after I walked into the McDonalds and got my salad, the purpose of my trip!

My car is driveable and does not have any other damage other than cosmetic, so it was not the end of the world. As long as the other guy's insurance really does fix my car and really does exist (he did not have his information with him, but the police officer spoke to the company on the phone). If not, THEN it might be the end of the world.

I have hope the remainder of the day will improve. I have plans to go to a movie that I won tickets to, "My Sister's Keeper." Plus, I plan to stop by Subway to get free dinner, using a gift card I received for my birthday. We can only hope it gets better, right?

Perty By Thirty -- Week 28

2009-07-21T13:58:00.002-05:00

Well, I posted over here yesterday that I was loving me some Farm Town on Facebook. Let's just say the love didn't last too long. I went home yesterday and my computer has a virus, that I researched and learned is from Farm Town. That really has nothing to do with Perty by Thirty, except I wasn't able to post last night and let you all know that I lost 1.6 pounds last week!

If you only knew what a miracle this was! I was completely shocked because I weighed myself at home on Friday and it wasn't looking good. But I tried hard through the weekend. Hoss and I went for a walk to the park a mile and a half from our house. That is one way. We walked for 3 total miles. Well, I walked for 3 miles and Hoss rode in the wagon. My arms are still hurting from pulling a 48 pound child three miles.

So, I guess the walking and my Wii Fit addiction may have ultimately helped my cause. I am hoping to double that number next week. I have slacked off the past few weeks and I can't keep taking 4 weeks to lose 5 pounds. I won't make my goal doing that, so I'm off to walk some more. See ya next week!

Perty by Thirty -- Week 27

2009-07-14T15:08:00.002-05:00

I didn't mean to take so long to post this week's weight verdict. I got wrapped up in some other activities last night and didn't get around to posting. Today, I have been rather swamped by work, of all things! Finally, I have got a few minutes and here I am.

If you came over checking for my weekly post, then you really need to get a life. I'm sure no one actually did that, but my weight tracker above was updated yesterday. I did get around to that last night. You may not have noticed because it didn't move very much, only .8. That is, I lost .8 pounds.

I am pretty happy with that because I really thought I had gained weight this week. With my birthday last Thursday, I spent that day and a couple others "celebrating." Which means I ate lots of cake and ice cream and fried foods. I enjoyed all of it! So, considering what i put into my body during the week, a .8 loss is definitely an accomplishment.

This week I am determined to make a difference and get with the program again. So far, so good. I've made it through half a day and I haven't eaten anything "bad." And I even exercised on my lunch break. Let's hope I can stick with it for the rest of the week!

Perty by Thirty Week 26

2009-07-06T21:12:00.003-05:00

Despite the week of vacation and the holiday festivities I was still able to squeak out a loss this week.

It was only a .6 pound loss, but it is a lot more than I was expecting. As long as it is a loss I'm going to take it.

This brings me up to 63 pounds lost. Yesterday was the 6 month mark of my weight loss journey. In those 6 months I have surpassed my personal mental goal to lose 50 pounds by my 29th birthday that is coming up this Thursday.

My next goal is to hit 100 pounds by Christmas. Only 37 pounds to go. :)

Our golf vacation

2009-06-30T20:31:00.007-05:00

We are currently on a 48 hour family vacation. This is the first vacation that just the three of us have had. We have had a few other vacations, but those have consisted of going with other family members. We have been able to merge our vacations at the same time and are having a great time in Gatlinburg.

We have been talking to Hoss about going to Gatlinburg for about a month now. We got a few fliers for activites, one of which was for a new mini-golf course. This one actually. Hoss has talked about seeing the pigs and playing golf every day.

Naturally one of our first orders of business was to check out the golf course. This was Hoss' first time mini-golfing or golfing at all. He fell in love with the sport. He knows all about golf from playing the Wii with Daddy and was able to show us his skills.

The mini-golf course was cute and fun. We chose the easiest course since we had a newbie with us. A little expensive, but well worth it to see the joy from Hoss. All he has talked about tonight was "playing goff in Gatwinburg."

Here is Hoss with a few of the cows at the first hole.

Daddy and Hoss with some of the horses. All the animals would talk when you hit the ball in certain areas. The horses neighed and moved their heads.

Mommy and Hoss waiting for our turn. It is nearly impossible to get Hoss to look at the camera for pictures.

And a couple shots of Hoss' golf form. I'm not sure if he has decided if he wants to be right or left handed yet. Mommy and Daddy are both lefthanded, so I think he chooses to do things lefthanded at times just because he sees us doing it that way. He mostly chose to golf left handed, but would often stradle the ball and hit it between his legs.

My favorite part of Hoss' golf technique is that he will hit the ball once from the beginning (with his one handed swing), then will pick up the ball, run to the hole, sit the ball down right beside the hole and hit it in. Then he will take the ball out, sit it by the hole again and hit it in. He would repeat this as long as we (and the people behind us) would let him.

I guess we will be hitting up the local mini-golf course when we get home.

Before and Now

2009-06-30T08:30:00.001-05:00

I was looking through old pictures last night while I was looking for a "before" weight loss picture. My Weight Watchers leader encouraged me to enter a contest they are having nationwide for the most successful and inspiring weight loss stories.

I honestly doubt I will win. I am not at my weight loss goal. Heck, I have 101.4 pounds to go. But, I thought it was worth a shot. Plus, this way I know what I need to do for next year's competition, right?

In typical Jessica fashion I have waited until the very last minute to get this mailed by the deadline (must be received by Monday). It will go out in the mail today, only after I stop at Walgreens this morning on my way out of town to pick up my before and after pictures and an envelope to mail it all in.

Anyway, I thought I would share my before and after pictures with you all. I know I have lost a good deal of weight, but I am still not pleased with my appearance in my after picture. It just doesn't seem dramatic enough. Oh well, next year it will be amazing. Right?

Here goes.

My before picture (taken in Sept. 08)

My after picture (taken yesterday...I'm a procrastinator remember?)

Ok, that was tough. I hate sharing pictures of myself. UGH!

Perty by Thirty Week 25

2009-06-29T18:05:00.002-05:00

My scale at home didn't move much, but the Weight Watcher scale did. And really that's all that matters. Especially when it moves down, like it did this week.

I lost another 3.2 pounds. Bringing me to 62.4 pounds total. My BMI has dropped 10 points! That is making me happy.

I have several challenges this week. We are heading for a short vacation tomorrow. Then 4th of July activites are scheduled. I am really going to have to stay focused, plan ahead, and continue to exercise.

I have been exercising daily for the past three weeks and it has made all the difference. I found that the hotel we are staying in this week has a fitness center. At least this is what their website says. I sure hope they aren't lying because that is my main plan for exercise this week. And possibly my only hope for the scale to move down again next week.

Well that and wearing this lightweight dress again!

10 things I have learned (so far) during my weight loss journey

2009-06-24T15:31:00.002-05:00

1. My body is very predictable. Every four weeks I can expect a weight gain (although, I was able to squeak past that dreaded week this past month with exercise!). It’s those darn female hormones that do it! It is such a joy to be a woman.

2. Eating healthier makes me feel better. I don’t feel gassy and my stomach doesn’t roll and yell at me after eating. I don’t feel so full I could throw up, but I do feel full and satisfied. However, if I eat a greasy food, I will pay for it. That’s motivation not to eat it, right?

3. I have a lot more energy. I offer to go outside with Hoss instead of sighing and making up excuses when he asks. That’s what 60 pounds will do for ya!

4. I am a proud person. At least I’m turning into one. I am caring more about what I look like and how I appear in certain clothing a lot more now than ever before. I am aware of the potential for arrogance and I’m trying to keep myself reigned in. However, I really need a spray tan and my teeth whitened. Maybe even some veneers.

5. My skin does not appear as oily. I’ve always had oily skin and recently this seems to be a bit less than normal. Except for when those hormones sneak up on me.

6. Accountability is a requirement for me. If I don’t have people to report to or who are there to motivate me and make me move, I often won’t do it. This is as simple as writing down my exercise for the weight loss incentive program at work. I know I have to document if I did it or not, so that makes me get off my rear and get moving.

7. I don’t have to be deprived of my favorite foods. If I want something I love that is nice and fattening, I can have it, but will have to accommodate for this food throughout the day. I also have found a lot of yummy low point alternatives to my favorite foods. These make me very, very happy.

8. Verbal encouragement is an amazing motivator. At least for me it is. However, I have to be cautious how I respond to the encouragement. Sometimes I slack off on my point counting and start to eat bad things because I know I look good. Other times it makes me want to keep working hard so I can look even better.

9. Weight Watchers is saving my life. Literally. As long as I don’t get hit by a car today (or anytime), I’m going to be living a long and happy life…as a skinny girl!

10. If I am determined, I can do anything. I’m certain that is true for anyone. The trick is finding the determination and motivation. It is only something that you can create. The only person who can change you is you. It’s a hard lesson to learn, but it can change your life. Seriously. It’s changing mine.

Perty by Thirty Week 24

2009-06-22T21:00:00.002-05:00

I made up for my small .8 pound weight loss last week with a 4.4 pound loss this week! This brings my total loss to 59.2 pounds.

I believe all of this loss is related to incorporating daily exercise into my life. I have been walking daily for 30 minutes. Well, except this past Saturday when I did a Richard Simmons work out video and went on a bike ride with my sister.

I may have caught the biking bug. I'm considering finding a bike for myself. But I will make sure I get the comfort seat! OUCH!

I'm hoping I can keep up the loss and add to it next week. I'd love to hit the 60 pound mark by my 6 month mark (July 5th).

Wish me luck!

The days of the week...

2009-06-18T07:00:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I do things that make me think maybe I have this motherhood thing figured out. And then my child hits me when I tell him that he can not run across the street in front of traffic. Obviously, I will never have the whole motherhood thing down pat, but I try.

I recently had a great idea that made me feel like I had it all figure out. I made a calendar.

I know, it seems so simple and so silly, but it has been so beneficial for Hoss. This summer Hoss' schedule will change a lot as we have a variety of different activities and plans. He has difficulty when his schedule changes often, so I thought I would help him feel prepared as possible.

I made a summer calendar that indicates all of our fun activities we have planned.

Hoss is attending daycare for 6 weeks during the summer and I indicated this with small stars, so he would know which days he would be at his "new school." (I can't tell him he is going to school in the mornings because he always corrects me by saying, "my NEW school."). By the way, he is absolutely loving his new school and is actually doing very well. Much relief for me.

I also noted birthdays through the summer (mine, hubby's, Pap's, and cousin), our scheduled vacations (a short trip to NC -- this past weekend -- and Gatlinburg in a couple weeks. He is really looking forward to Gatlinburg, I think because of the bear sticker I put on the calendar). It also indicates when his regular school starts again and trips to visit grandparents.

We are marking days off every time I remember. Each time I note the next upcoming event and we talk about how many days it will be until that day. I have been very surprised how much Hoss has shown interest in the calendar. This may be something I will have to do year round.

The coolest craft yet

2009-06-17T07:30:00.000-05:00

I have a difficult time throwing away items Hoss has made. But, at the same time, you can only have so many colored pictures of Peter walking on water or popcicle stick houses. When I am picking out crafts for the kids I work with at church I try to ask the question, "Will they use this again? Or will it be thrown away?" And while, I understand that some parents have different perceptions of trash or treasure, I try to pick items that are more likely to be considered treasure.

That being said, Hoss did the coolest craft recently at church. It was a homemade chia pet. See.

I am not sure the exact facts about how to make this, but I did do a google search. I'm all about the research over here. I found these instructions.

Our grass guy (as we so affectionately called him) lived for nearly two months. Then I forgot to add water to the cup (an empty yogurt cup in our case) and his hair stopped growing and he died. Even with more water added, he never revived. I guess his name wasn't Lazarus.

Or I just don't have the power to heal.

Economical Exercise

2009-06-17T07:15:00.000-05:00

Want to figure out how to exercise for free or cheap?

Yeah, me too.

Maybe these tips will be helpful.

I'm back...back in the CVS groove

2009-06-16T10:45:00.003-05:00

Last week I drug myself back to CVS and I did awesome. Remember? 53 cents is all I spent!
This week I decided to tackle ole CVS again. The adrenaline high from the 53 cent deal was still in my blood stream.

I scoured the ad on Sunday while returning from a quick road trip to North Carolina to visit family. You can breathe easier, I wasn't driving. I was glad to have the time to check out the ads and make my lists while searching my coupons. I don't normally get that time much anymore.

I made my list and Monday Hoss and I ran to CVS after work/daycare. (By the way, Hoss is attending a daycare for the summer and is doing really well. He also loves it, which is a relief!).

I did not do as well as I did last week, but I also didn't do bad.

Here is what I purchased:

* 1 Crest Pro-Health mouthwash 250ml $2.99 (yes, I got some last week, a bigger bottle, but we were out before that. I'm always thinking ahead!)
* 1 Schick Quattro razor $7.99 (again, I bought a razor last week, but you can never have too many, right?)
* 1 Purex 3 in 1 laundry sheets $6.99 (I was totally intrigued by these. I haven't used them yet, but I'll let you all know what I think when I do)
* 1 M&M $1 (I had to bribe the three year old, it's what I do best)
Total -- $18.97

Coupons I used:
$4 off Schick razor -- $14.97
$2 off Purex 3 in 1 -- $12.97
$11 in ECBs (from last week's purchase) -- $1.97
Tax -- 48 cents

Total out of pocket -- $2.45

I earned $7 in ECBs to use in the future. Maybe they will have mouthwash on sale again next week. If so, I'm there!

Perty by Thirty, Week 23

2009-06-15T21:13:00.002-05:00

This week was my normal 4 week mark when I gain weight. I am proud to say I did not gain this week! I lost .8 pound. While it was a little disappointing to lose so little, I am happy that I did not gain.

This week I added exercise into my weight loss routine. I believe this was the reason I lost weight this week and did not gain. I walked every day each week for at least 30 minutes.

I have been doing my walking during the week with co-workers during our lunch break. My company began a promotion to encourage us to lose weight and get healthy. The promotion is a 50 day challenge to be active with exercise for 30 minutes daily. I am hoping the exercise will prove to be helpful in my weight loss journey.

My Ways to $ave Wednesday posts for the next two weeks at Bluegrass Moms will be about tips I have received at my Weight Watchers' meetings over the past few weeks. Be sure to check out the first one about exercising economically this Wednesday.

It's a party...a pizza party!

2009-06-12T08:00:00.000-05:00

I got into the Dominos House Party. If you aren't familiar with house parties, check out their website. Basically, different companies of all different types (restaurants, television shows, juice, tuna, etc.) offer opportunities to host a party to debut new items. These parties are for anyone who is interested in participating. You have to request to be a host and a few weeks before the party date (determined by the website) they will select hosts.

I just recently began to request to be a hostess. I was thrilled to get in on one of my first requests.

On June 20th I will be hosting a house party for Dominos pizza's American Legends pizzas. My house party pack arrived a few days ago. In a pizza box!

The pack included a $75 gift card to purchase one of the new six American Legends pizzas as well as "You Gotta be Kidding," a "Would you Rather" kids version game, coupons for the game, and coupons for free popcorn at AMC movie theaters.

We will be visiting my parents on the 20th and will be hosting the party at their house. All of our extended family has been invited and I'm sure we will have a great time testing the new pizzas!

I will be sure to let you all know what we think. And I hope the party doesn't ruin my weight loss! :)

I'm back in the game!

2009-06-11T22:04:00.003-05:00

Tonight I finally ventured out to CVS for this week's deals. I have been slacking recently in deal hunting and even let some of my CVS Extra Care Bucks expire! I know. The horror!

I was able to rack up $9 in ECBs a couple weeks ago and noticed some deals in this week's ad that I wanted to check out. I made my list and gathered my coupons and headed to the store.

And I rocked it!

I got all of the following:

And I only paid 53 CENTS!

This is how I did it.

I purchased
1 Contour glucose monitor -- $14.99
2 Dawn dish soap -- $2
1 Fusion razor -- $7.99
1 Crest Pro 1 liter mouthwash -- $3.99
1 ALS $1 donation -- $1
Total: $29.97

I used these coupons:
$30 off Contour monitor adjusted to $14.99 -- $14.98
50 cent of Dawn dish soap -- $14.48
25 cents off Dawn dish soap -- $14.23
$1 off Crest Pro Health mouthwash -- $13.23
$4 off Fusion razor -- $9.23
$9 in ECBS -- 23 cents
Add tax of 30 cents
My total was 53 cents!

I also earned $11 in ECBs for my next shopping trip.

I'm so excited about my deals. It is rejuvenating and reminded me of the "great deal" adrenaline I love! I hope I can keep it up.

"It's alright cuz we're saved by the bell"

2009-06-09T19:50:00.002-05:00

I have to admit that I spent the majority of my pre-teen/adolescent years getting up on Saturday mornings to watch NBC's Saturday morning line up. I specifically looked forward to "Saved by the Bell."

Zack and AC were so dreamy!

I can't tell you how thrilled I was to see Zack Morris made an appearance on the Jimmy Fallon show last night.

If you missed it last night (like I did), check it out here. If you are a child of the last 80s-early 90s you will love it!

Perty by Thirty -- Week 22

2009-06-09T08:50:00.002-05:00

I turned it around this week and lost 3.8 pounds! Yippee!

I am up to 54 pounds lost total.

My employer began a fitness initiative this week that they do annually. A group of us at work joined up and we are hoping to lose the largest percentage of weight! Part of the initiative is to do some type of exercise for at least 30 minutes for 50 days. Yesterday we walked for 30 minutes during our lunch break and we have plans to do so again today! Having friends on the same track really helps with the motivation factor.

Next week is the typical 4 week mark in which I gain weight. I am determined not to gain this time. I am going to count my points carefully and exercise every day in hopes a weight loss will be seen at the scale next week.

Plus, my three year old told me that I looked like Big Show (a wrestler) when I was wearing my swim suit on Sunday. Next summer he won't be saying that!

The first school program

2009-06-07T15:32:00.009-05:00

Last week Hoss' preschool class had an "end of the year" program. I had few expectations for Hoss. He is not much of a performer. He loves music, the focus of the program, but he does not wish to perform in front of crowds or with others. He's more of an appreciator of music.

I tried to encourage Hoss to participate during the week prior to the program. I wanted him to know it is fun to sing to other people. Despite my excitment for the upcoming program and constant encouragement, Hoss was not much of a performer.

At one point the class doned fun sunglasses and sang "My Girl." Needless to say, it was the cutest thing! And, also needless to say, Hoss did not participate.

First he refused to turn around when the song began.

Well, maybe I'll turn around sideways.

Ok, fine! I'll turn around, but I will NOT participate.

It doesn't matter though. I'm still a heartthrob.

Ok, I guess I'll point to Mommy when they say "My Girl."

These glasses make everything dark.

Now that's better!

Celebrities in your midst

2009-06-04T06:43:00.004-05:00

Look! We are celebrities.

(If you click on more pictures you will see pictures of me and Hoss and Hoss by himself. Just don't look at the food I'm eating!).

Perty by Thirty -- Week 21

2009-06-02T06:47:00.002-05:00

Good Grief! (Yes, I'm Charlie Brown) I gained weight again. I just can't get two weeks in a row where I loose weight. This week I gained 1.8 pounds. I know it is not the 4 week mark, but I'm going to blame hormones and the lovely female cycle. I retained fluid horribly yesterday. My feet even swelled. I guess the heat and the cycle combined were a bad combination for me.

Let's hope next week will be better. I'm going to do my part to make it better!

Perty by Thirty -- Week 20

2009-05-26T21:08:00.002-05:00

Well, it's week 20 and I finally jumped the big hurdle...the 50 pound mark. This week I lost 5.6 pounds bringing me up to a total 52 pounds lost! I have been flirting with the 50 pound mark for several weeks now and I finally overcame it! Yippee!

I received another magnet, this one with a 50! It sits proudly on my refrigerator reminding me to keep it up.

Since yesterday was a holiday my regular Weight Watcher meeting was canceled. A friend and I went to another meeting in town today. I am very glad I did. The weight loss this week helped to motivate me to keep going. I was starting to get a little discouraged at my attempts to hit the 50 pound mark. However, going to the store and purchasing clothing that was 3 sizes smaller was rather motivating as well.

This week moved me to being 1/3rd of the way to my 150 pound loss by my 30th birthday, July 9, 2010. According to the Weight Watchers healthy weights I will need to actually lose 163 pounds to met my lifetime goal (when I can come to WW without paying). In my head, my goal is 163 pounds, but if I even get close I'll be happy!

Now I'm off to enjoy my success and try not to sabotage myself this week!

Perty by Thirty -- Week 19

2009-05-19T06:28:00.002-05:00

Well, it was the 4 week mark. That being said, I gained weight. But it was only .8 pound. Not too bad.

I do have to admit I was disappointed. Yes, I anticipate a weight gain every four weeks. It's the pleasure of being a woman. However, I really wanted to do well this week just to prove it wrong. Plus, I gained a huge 4.8 pounds two weeks ago which has nothing to do with hormones, but my desire to eat lots of food that was really bad for me.

I guess I can't complain too much. I have lost 46.4 pounds in 19 weeks. Not too shabby. I just hope I can hit that 50 pound loss soon. I've been flirting with it for 4 weeks now and I can see it taunting me. I just hope this holiday weekend doesn't ruin me.

I don't have a WW meeting next Monday night so I probably won't post my weight loss because I won't know what it is. However, I am going to try to attend a meeting later in the week, so I'll keep you all updated.

Perty by Thirty Week 18

2009-05-11T20:44:00.003-05:00

I almost made up for the 4.8 pound weight gain last week by losing 4.4 pounds this week.

This brings me to a 47.2 pound weight loss over the last 18 weeks.

Perty by Thirty -- Week 17

2009-05-05T06:33:00.002-05:00

Well, I did it again. I gained weight. A lot of weight. And I have no excuses this time. I just ate bad. A lot.

That being said, I'll confess that I gained 4.8 pounds this week. ACK!!!!! It's horrid.

I am committed to turning it around this week. I got the eating bad out of my system and now it's time to eat good.

Plus, I felt horrible after I over ate. My stomach cramped. I had pains, not like the food not settling pains, but like muscle pulled pains. I think my stomach is not used to the huge amounts of bad food I ate.

So it's time to regroup. Get it back together and lose again.

April grocery budget

2009-04-29T08:00:00.000-05:00

Remember when I told you all that I was planning to cut our grocery budget back in April and I said I would keep you all up to date.

And, now it's April 29th and I haven't kept you up to date at all.

Well, check out my blog over here and see how we did!

A hair burning experience

2009-04-28T19:03:00.003-05:00

Tonight, I decided to be nice wife and try to have dinner ready by the time my hardworking husband arrived home from work. I got off work a couple hours before him, so this made it possible.

I multi-tasked by marinading the pork chops while I watched Table for 12 I had DVR'd the day before. Since I had multi-tasked I knew I needed a quick way to cook the pork chops.

The weather has finally been warm so I decided it was time to warm up the grill outside. I got everything ready, went outside and turned on the gas. I turned the level to the star and pushed the ignitor once.

Nothing happened.

I pushed it again.

Nothing happened.

I turned up the gas.

Pushed the ignitor.

And nearly fell backwards.

I guess the combination of turning up the gas and pushing the ignitor four times works. Flames flew out of the grill.

When I realized I was okay I looked at my arms and noticed burned hair. Yes, I burned the hair off my arms, specifically my left one.

I put the pork chops on the grill and came inside. At that point I noticed my hair, on my head, was singed slightly on the left side.

Can I tell you how bad burned hair smells like. I have been smelling it for the last 2 hours.

And that is my first encounter with the grill this summer.

Tomorrow, we are having leftovers for dinner. I'm not risking it two days in a row!

Perty by Thirty Week 16

2009-04-27T19:34:00.003-05:00

I think the scale was not calibrated correctly today. That or I broke it when I stepped on it.

Either way, I lost 9.4 pounds this week!

Wow! I just hope next week isn't diappointing when the scales are fixed. :)

This 9.4 pound loss brings me up to 47.6 pounds lost in 16 weeks!

The only differences I had last week were keeping close track of anything I put in my mouth and drinking lots of water. Maybe those two things added together works for me. At least it did this week.

Yesterday I pulled out some "old" clothes. I am able to wear them all now, but it has been so long (pre-Hoss, so over 3 1/2 years), that the clothes, which had been hanging in my closet, have dust on them.

I guess my washing machine will be busy.

Although, I will need to get some new clothes soon. After all, I am 20 pounds lighter now than I was at my first OB appointment over 4 years ago.

Perty by Thirty Week 15

2009-04-20T18:58:00.002-05:00

Well, it has been 4 weeks since the last weight gain, so I was due for another. I am blaming it all on hormones. I've decided that is why I keep having weight loss "issues" once a month. Sounds like a good excuse to me! I'm using it this week. :)

I gained .8 pounds. So, really, not too shabby. I am currently at 38.2 weight loss in 15 weeks.

I have discovered that I can't take compliments well. I am to the point of my weight loss that it is obvious. My clothing is far to large and I have had to retire some old clothing from my wardrobe. Since it is obvious now, people are commenting about the changes. I put two and two together this week and realized that the weeks people comment more about my weight loss, I eat more. I know it doesn't make since, but it's what I do. Now I'm trying to make a point not to eat everytime I get compliments. Those snacks add up!

And now for excuse three and four.

Maybe the weight gain was just related to the hormonal cravings I had this week. Or the massive amount of Easter candy my son received that just keeps calling my name.

And there are all the excuses I have. Hopefully I won't have to think up new ones next week! :)

Perty by Thirty Week 14

2009-04-13T19:31:00.004-05:00

We are on Week 14 and with today's loss of 2.2 pounds I am up to a total of 39 pounds lost. Not too shabby! :)

I won't rant and rave today about potty training. So far we have had 3 successes in the past two days. Maybe we are making progress. Maybe.

Update: Alright, it's official...I can't post about success again. Poop was just cleaned up from the floor of someone's bedroom floor. It wasn't my bedroom floor.

Hope you all have a great week! :)